Improving Outcomes in the Patient with Polytrauma A Review of the Role of Whole-Body Computed Tomography

Whole-body computed tomography (WBCT) has become a widely used technique for the workup of the patient with blunt polytrauma. Current evidence suggests that WBCT is associated with improved or no change in patient survival and reduces the emergency department (ED) length of stay (LOS). However, randomized studies, are needed to determine for certain whether early WBCT improves survival, to clarify which patients benefit the most and to model the costs of this technique compared with traditional workup. Advancements in modern multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) technology and an improved understanding of optimal protocols have enabled one to scan the entire body and achieve adequate image quality for a comprehensive trauma assessment in a short period.