Conclusions

Abstract

Imaging studies are crucial to the management of trauma patients. A frontal chest radiograph is the single most important radiographic study and should be obtained in all patients who are stable enough to have any diagnostic tests done. Patients should be upright when the film is taken, if possible. The film should first be examined for evidence of critical or immediately life-threatening injuries (pneumothorax, hemothorax, mediastinal widening suggestive of aortic injury, thoracic spine fractures, an enlarged cardiac silhouette that suggests hemopericardium, etc.). The location of central venous catheters, endotracheal tubes, and nasogastric tubes should also be noted. Information concerning these and other significant abnormalities must be immediately communicated to the individuals directly involved in caring for the patient.