Computed tomography of musculoskeletal trauma

Radiology plays a crucial role in the evaluation of the acutely traumatized patient by providing information that allows timely and appropriate management to be instituted. With few exceptions, notably the skull, plain films remain the primary imaging technique for the diagnosis of skeletal trauma. Computed tomography (CT) has become an important adjunctive procedure in the evaluation and diagnosis of trauma, particularly in complex anatomic areas, including the sternoclavicular joint, the pelvis, and the spine, and in many hospitals has virtually replaced conventional tomography. It may be combined with arthrography or enhanced by intravenous or intrathecal contrast material. This article reviews the uses of CT in the diagnosis and evaluation of musculoskeletal trauma and its complications.