Informatics in Emergency Radiology

Abstract

Since Roentgen’s first use of the x-ray almost 100 years ago, the radiographic film has been a key element used to communicate information about normal and pathologic anatomy and pathologic states in medicine. Its role in the emergency department (ED) has been extensive; the majority of traumatized patients undergo one or more imaging studies. We have traditionally relied on the x-ray film to capture, store, and transfer information between and among the radiology technologists, the radiologists, the managing emergency department physician, and paramedical personnel. To date, even primarily digital modalities such as computerized tomography (CT) and ultrasound (US) have relied on x-ray film as their short-and longterm storage and communication medium. Despite the benefits that have accrued over the years because of the use of x-ray films in medicine, there remain several inherent weaknesses in the use of this medium for imaging. These include its limited ability to capture x-ray photons, its physical characteristics and processing requirements, and its uniqueness as a physical entity. Changes in any one of these areas could significantly influence the use of x-rays and x-ray film in the hospital emergency department.