X-Rays Often Inaccurate In Hip and Pelvic Fracture | Arthritis Information

 

Radiographs (standard X-rays) are often inconclusive in the detection of hip and pelvic fractures in the emergency department, according to a study in the April issue of the American Journal of Roentgenology.

"The diagnosis of traumatic fracture most often begins and ends with X-rays of the hip, pelvis, or both," said Charles Spritzer, MD, lead author of the study. "In some cases though, the exclusion of a traumatic fracture is difficult," said Spritzer.

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/182883.php

I learned early on that orthopedic surgeons and rheumatologists want patients to use particular radiology facilities because of their expertise. There are some pretty lousy radiologists and techs out there and doctors tend to know which places do a good job.I can attest to that fact.  I fell and went to the ER where they just x-rayed my hip.  I was told there was no fx,  just a "sprained hip".   However, I was in agony, and 10 days later I went back to PCP MD who order MRI of my pelvis - bingo!   Pelvis fx'd in 2 places (one was in many pieces, in fact).  I was pretty angry that they missed it in the ER.  After all, I had been going to work and acting like I had to tough it out because "there was nothing seriously wrong"...ARGH.

Mary-Pat
I posted this article because when my hip fractured, the x-rays didn't pick it up.