OTA 1998 Posters

Remote Analysis of Traumatic Musculoskeletal Radiographs Transmitted by Electronic Mail (e-mail): An Emerging Technology

Steven M. Raikin, MD; Louis A. Bley, MD; Robert B. Leb, The Mt. Sinai Medical Center, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Cleveland, OH

Introduction: Inappropriate or mistimed treatment may result from the incorrect interpretation of radiographs. Typically, the attending physician at a remote location is dependent on a verbal description of the radiographs in order to assess and plan treatment. Inaccuracies may occur because the verbal description is often made by a junior resident or emergency room physician less experienced than the attending orthopaedic surgeon.

Purpose: The purpose of this project is to demonstrate an inexpensive system capable of electronic transmission of radiographs for analysis at a remote location. This system would ideally be both inexpensive and simple to use, allowing universal application by the average practitioner.

Methods: Relatively inexpensive "off-the-shelf" computer hardware and software has been used to digitize radiographs. The images were then converted into a transmittable format and electronically transmitted via the Internet to a remote location for analysis.

Results: The successful creation of this system has led to widespread use within our department both for the immediate evaluation of x-rays from the emergency department as well as inter-physician consultation regarding treatment plans.

Discussion: The point in the treatment process of orthopaedic injuries most vulnerable to error is the initial evaluation of the injury. Decreasing the uncertainty inherent in verbal descriptions of radiographs allows more accurate assessment and treatment planning, while at the same time decreasing the liability to the attending physician.