Week 5: Session 10 – Specialized Radiographic Procedures

Text Explanation for Session 10

1. Trauma Radiography

• Considerations for Trauma Patients:
  Trauma radiography involves imaging patients who may have suffered injuries such as fractures or spinal injuries. Special care must be taken to avoid further injury or discomfort.

  • Immobilization: Trauma patients may require immobilization devices such as cervical collars or splints. These devices should not be removed during radiography, and the radiographer must work around them.

  • Modified Positioning: In some cases, standard projections may need to be modified. For example, in a trauma patient unable to sit up, a supine chest X-ray can be taken.

  • Portable X-ray Machines: In trauma situations, portable X-ray machines may be used in the emergency room or at the bedside to avoid moving the patient.

• Key Projections in Trauma Radiography:

  • AP and Lateral Views: These are typically used for imaging bones and joints in trauma patients to assess fractures and dislocations.

  • Cross-table Lateral: In cases of suspected spinal injury, a cross-table lateral view is commonly taken to avoid moving the patient.

2. Pediatric Radiography

• Considerations for Pediatric Patients:
  Pediatric patients are more sensitive to radiation than adults, so minimizing exposure is crucial. Special techniques and positioning are often required to ensure diagnostic images while keeping the patient comfortable.

  • Immobilization Devices: Children may need to be restrained using special devices like Pigg-O-Stat or Velcro straps to prevent movement during the exposure.

  • Parental Involvement: Parents can sometimes assist in holding the child, but they must be properly shielded from radiation.

  • Adjusting Exposure Settings: Lower exposure settings (kVp and mAs) are typically used for children because their smaller bodies require less radiation to produce a diagnostic image.

• Key Projections in Pediatric Radiography:

  • Chest X-ray: Used to assess conditions such as pneumonia or foreign body inhalation.

  • Extremity X-rays: Commonly used for evaluating fractures in children, especially in cases of accidental or non-accidental trauma.

3. Geriatric Radiography

• Considerations for Geriatric Patients:
  Geriatric patients may present challenges due to factors like decreased mobility, frailty, or the presence of chronic conditions such as osteoporosis or arthritis.

  • Patient Comfort: Extra padding or support may be needed to keep elderly patients comfortable during positioning.

  • Fragile Bones: Care should be taken to avoid putting excessive pressure on joints or bones that may be weakened by osteoporosis.

  • Communication: Hearing loss or cognitive decline may affect a patient’s ability to follow instructions, so clear and simple communication is essential.

• Key Projections in Geriatric Radiography:

  • Hip X-ray: Commonly performed in elderly patients, especially in cases of suspected fractures from falls.

  • Spine X-ray: Often used to assess for degenerative changes or fractures in elderly patients.