Radiology Review
Secondary Survey of Trauma Patient
You are assisting in the evaluation and management of a trauma patient who was brought to your facility earlier today, following a motor vehicle...
Nandan R. Hichkad, PA-C, MMSc, practices at the Georgia Neurosurgical Institute in Macon.
ANSWER
The radiograph shows diffuse osteopenia and spondylosis. Of note is a moderate to severe compression deformity of the T8 vertebral body. However, by plain radiograph, it is age indeterminate as to its acuity. For definitive diagnosis, MRI without contrast is required to assess for marrow edema, which then suggests an acute fracture.
This patient was admitted for further workup. MRI was ultimately obtained and revealed marrow edema within that vertebral body. She was treated with a rigid custom-made brace.
You are assisting in the evaluation and management of a trauma patient who was brought to your facility earlier today, following a motor vehicle...
As you begin your shift, knowing deer season has started in your area, you wonder how long it will be before you see your first deer stand...
A 90-year-old woman, admitted for altered mental status, just had a nasogastric tube placed to facilitate nutrition and medication delivery.