Medical imaging and injury scaling in trauma biomechanics

Victims of trauma present unique diagnostic and management challenges to healthcare providers. The role of medical imaging in the evaluation of this patient population has evolved over the last several decades to help provide fast, accurate information to clinicians. The ability to identify important clinical signs to help identify patients in need of screening for different potential injuries can still be a challenge. Utilizing evidence based patient and mechanism specific factors to recognize those at risk of life threatening and potentially life threatening injuries will help guide the decision making process in choosing the most appropriate imaging modality. Additionally, improvements in imaging techniques has allowed for the establishment of image based injury grading systems to expand the role of non operative management of solid organ injuries. These advancements are not without downsides as radiation exposure, contrast exposure, and cost are also on the rise. Therefore, expanding provider familiarity with available imaging modalities, injury patterns, and injury severity is key in providing trauma patients with the best possible care.