VALUE OF INTRAOPERATIVE IMAGE INTENSIFIER PRINTS IN TRAUMA SURGERY

We have studied the use of image intensification in a trauma theatre o ver a period of 6 months with particular reference to the acquisition of intraoperative image intensifier thermal prints instead of formal r adiographs. The quality of the prints and the savings generated have b een assessed. During the study period, 476 patients underwent orthopae dic trauma procedures. The image intensifier was used for intraoperati ve screening in 280 patients. In 278 of these a thermal print was obta ined. This was used, instead of formal check radiographs, to plan furt her management in 210 patients (75%). In 68 patients, the printout was insufficient in its coverage of the operated area, and a check radiog raph was also obtained. In no case did the clarity of the thermal imag e hinder accurate interpretation. We believe that thermal images are a useful substitute for formal postoperative radiographs in many trauma cases, and that, with notable exceptions, their use could decrease co sts, reduce patient discomfort and radiation dose and spare overloaded radiology services.