investigations in fractures
Last reviewed 01/2018
The radiograph is the single most important investigation. For meaningful interpretation and to prevent omissions, the following rule of two's should be observed:
- 2 views - for example AP and lateral
- 2 joints - above and below the obvious injury
- 2 occasions, for example in scaphoid fracture - if there is any doubt, bring back the patient after a few days
- 2 limbs, particularly important for comparison of the epiphyses in children
In more difficult cases, consider:
- CT or MRI
- radioisotope scanning