Section 22 Flashcards
(40 cards)
What is the primary role of radiology in emergency medicine?
To rapidly diagnose conditions, assess the severity of injuries, and guide emergency interventions.
What are the most commonly used imaging modalities in emergency settings?
X-ray, ultrasound (US), computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
How is an X-ray used in trauma assessment?
To evaluate fractures, dislocations, pneumothorax, and other skeletal injuries.
What is the significance of the FAST exam in emergency ultrasound?
Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma (FAST) is used to identify internal bleeding.
When is a CT scan preferred in emergency medicine?
For head trauma, suspected intracranial hemorrhage, abdominal injuries, and complex fractures.
What are the indications for MRI in emergency settings?
Spinal cord injuries, soft tissue damage, and vascular abnormalities.
How is contrast used in emergency radiology?
To enhance visibility of blood vessels, organs, and tumors in CT and MRI scans.
What is the importance of the chest X-ray in emergency medicine?
It helps identify pneumothorax, hemothorax, cardiac enlargement, and pulmonary edema.
How is a pneumothorax detected on a chest X-ray?
By the presence of a visible pleural line and absence of lung markings beyond it.
What is the role of portable X-ray in emergency care?
To assess critically ill patients without moving them from the resuscitation area.
When is a CT angiography indicated in emergency situations?
For suspected pulmonary embolism, aortic dissection, or vascular injuries.
How is a spinal injury assessed using radiology?
Through X-rays and CT for bony injuries; MRI for soft tissue and neurological assessment.
What is the role of Doppler ultrasound in emergency care?
To evaluate blood flow in cases of suspected deep vein thrombosis or arterial occlusion.
How is imaging used in the diagnosis of stroke?
CT is used for hemorrhagic stroke; MRI is superior for detecting ischemic stroke.
What are the limitations of plain radiography in emergency medicine?
Poor soft tissue visualization and limited sensitivity for early-stage fractures.
When is fluoroscopy used in emergency care?
For dynamic studies like swallowing assessments and catheter placements.
What is the purpose of a KUB (Kidneys, Ureters, Bladder) X-ray?
To detect kidney stones, bowel obstruction, and bladder abnormalities.
How is ultrasound used in cardiac emergencies?
To assess pericardial effusion, cardiac tamponade, and left ventricular function.
What is the role of radiology in suspected child abuse?
To identify fractures at various stages of healing and internal injuries.
How is imaging used to diagnose acute appendicitis?
Ultrasound is often the first choice; CT is used for detailed evaluation.
What are the indications for pelvic ultrasound in emergency settings?
To assess for ectopic pregnancy, ovarian torsion, and pelvic inflammatory disease.
How is a bowel obstruction visualized on radiography?
Dilated bowel loops, air-fluid levels, and absence of gas in the distal bowel.
What is the significance of a widened mediastinum on chest X-ray?
It may indicate aortic dissection or mediastinal mass.
How is radiology used in the evaluation of blunt abdominal trauma?
FAST ultrasound and CT are utilized to identify internal bleeding and organ injury.
