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Case of the False Fracture: A Report of a Radiographic Stitching Error in a Scoliosis Patient
Gregory Benes1, Ramy Saade, Laura M Fayad
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.
Case:
A 14-year-old boy with Marfan syndrome-associated scoliosis underwent postoperative imaging after scoliosis surgery. The lateral radiograph seemingly depicted a compression fracture of the L4 vertebra, despite the patient being asymptomatic. Further investigation with focused lumbar spine films, however, revealed a normal L4 vertebra. The apparent abnormality was attributed to an error in the image merging process.
Conclusion:
Image stitching errors can lead to a false impression of structural abnormalities. It is crucial for radiology technologists and clinicians to exercise caution when reviewing digitally stitched images. We reiterate the recommendation for technicians to label stitched images and indicate overlapping regions, facilitating judicious and accurate radiographic assessment.
