Identifying predictors for focused CT scanning in the ED

Background Appropriate imaging for major trauma patients, in particular deciding between imaging of a single body region or whole body CT (WBCT), is an important aspect of clinical decision making in these patients. This study aimed to identify predictors of injury to a single scan region in major trauma patients. Discussion These findings suggest that patients with examination findings isolated to a single body region may only need isolated imaging to the affected area. These factors, used in conjunction with a clinical decision rule for WBCT may help decide on the appropriate imaging for patient who do not need WBCT imaging.