[Radiology and emergency medicine: pitfalls to avoid in traumatology]

Abstract

The management of trauma is a significant part of emergency medicine practice, in a context where the number of sports accidents is rising steadily every year, with a total of 430,000 people affected in Switzerland in 2023 according to the Swiss Accident Prevention Bureau. In addition to the physical examination, radiological assessment is a cornerstone of diagnosis. Radiology of the musculoskeletal system is the most frequently requested paraclinical examination in these situations. The consequences of not recognizing radiological lesions may result in short-term consequences (haemorrhagic or neurological injuries) or long-term consequences (chronic pain, functional impairment). We therefore present examples of "pitfalls in radiology" frequently encountered in our daily clinical practice, and the use of additional exams.