ISSN:
1432-2161
Keywords:
Key words Polytomography
;
Computed tomography
;
Conventional tomography
;
Fractures
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Medicine
Notes:
Abstract Objective. To compare polytomography (PT) and computed tomography (CT) for visualizing fractures and arthrodeses, with and without metal hardware, to determine whether CT could adequately replace PT. Design and patients. An ex vivo bovine model containing fractures in three planes, reduced with metal hardware, was created to compare fractures using PT and CT. The radiation dose at the skin surface was calculated for both examinations. For in vivo assessment, images of 14 patients who underwent both PT and CT (15 fractures, five arthrodeses) were coded, sorted, and independently read by four musculoskeletal radiologists. They rated the degree of certainty of their assessment. Time factors for patients and personnel and financial costs were also compared. Results. In the ex vivo model the fractures were well seen on both PT and CT. The radiation dose was higher for PT than for CT. In vivo, the degree of certainty in assessment of fractures and arthrodeses was higher for PT than CT in studies in which metal hardware was present, but there was no significant difference in studies without metal hardware or in the combined (with and without hardware) studies. The patient’s and technologist’s time required to perform a PT examination was greater than that for CT. Conclusion. In the assessment of fractures and arthrodeses containing metal hardware, PT is recommended. For studies without hardware, CT is equivalent and can replace PT.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s002560050526
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