Use of diagnostic imaging in the emergency department for cervical spine injuries in Kingston, Ontario.

Objectives: This study assessed the use and clinical yield of diagnostic imaging (radiography, computed tomography, and medical resonance imaging) ordered to assist in the diagnosis of acute neck injuries presenting to emergency departments (EDs) in Kingston, Ontario, from 2002-2003 to 2009-2010.

Methods: Acute neck injury cases were identified using records from the Kingston sites of the Canadian National Ambulatory Care Reporting System. Use of radiography was analyzed over time and related to proportions of cases diagnosed with clinically significant cervical spine injuries.

Utilization of radiographs for the diagnosis of ankle fractures in Kingston, Ontario, Canada.

Objectives: This study assessed the utilization and clinical yield of radiographs ordered to assist in the diagnosis of acute ankle injuries presenting to two emergency departments (EDs) in Kingston, Ontario, Canada, over a 7-year period.

Methods: A large case series was assembled. Records of ankle injuries from the Kingston sites of the Canadian Hospitals Injury Reporting and Prevention Program (CHIRPP) were linked to hospital discharge records containing procedure codes.