The number of diagnostic imaging tests, radiation dose, and related charges in trauma patients increased over time at both trauma centers, with CT scans accounting for most of the radiation dose and costs. A shift toward more advanced imaging from conventional projection radiography was noted at both trauma centers. Effective dose per patient more than doubled over the course of study at center 1. By 2008, half of all radiographic studies were for musculoskeletal purposes. Previous studies have suggested an increased risk of cancer with exposures of 20-40 mSv, making the mean total radiation doses in excess of 30.0 mSv since 2005 of great concern. Variability in ordering patterns between the 2 centers with similar patient acuity suggests opportunity for discussion about indications for utilization, which could result in lower radiation doses and fewer expenses.
scite is a Brooklyn-based organization that helps researchers better discover and understand research articles through Smart Citations–citations that display the context of the citation and describe whether the article provides supporting or contrasting evidence. scite is used by students and researchers from around the world and is funded in part by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health.