Initial clinical experience with computed radiography imaging in an emergency department

In the emergency setting, dual imaging was performed in 42 examinations using conventional and computed radiography imaging (CRI) systems. Six specialists considered computed images to be preferable to conventional radiographs in 28% of observations, of equal quality in 50% of observations, and of lesser quality in 22% of observations, even though incorrect processing algorithms were used in 62% of the digital exams. Correct processing improved CRI image characteristics and increased its desirability over conventional studies, suggesting that digital imaging will have greater application in the emergency setting as processing features are simplified.