The clinical implications of using a low threshold for computed tomography scans in older patients presenting with a proximal femur fracture

Abstract

Key summary pointsAimWe evaluated the number of computerized tomography (CT) scans performed as well as the traumatic and non-traumatic clinical implications of using a low threshold for performing CT scans as part of the initial trauma screening in older patients presenting at the ED with a proximal femur fracture following a low-energy trauma (LET).FindingsApproximately one in five patients received a CT scan as part of the trauma screening in older patients with a proximal femur fracture after a LET. Results show no traumatic clinical implications, two non-traumatic clinical implications, and two initially missed injuries.MessageIn this subgroup of older trauma patients admitted with a proximal femur fracture, a restrictive policy can be used instead of using a low threshold for CT scans as part of the initial trauma screening at the emergency department (ED).