Pediatric emergency physician interpretation of plain radiographs: Is routine review by a radiologist necessary and cost-effective?
Radiograph interpretations by pediatric emergency physicians were generally accurate, and no adverse outcomes occurred as a result of misinterpretation. Clinical assessment probably assisted these physicians in interpreting the radiographs of high-risk patients. Judicious consultation with a radiologist during the initial presentation of a high-risk patient, when deemed warranted by the pediatric emergency physician, will help the emergency physician deliver high-quality, cost-effective health care. Given the overall clinical accuracy rate of radiograph interpretations by the pediatric emergency physicians and the cost of routine review of all plain radiographs in the ED by a radiologist, routine review versus selective specialty consultation must be further evaluated.
Exposure to a high level of fruit consumption was suggestive of increased caries risk. Longitudinal studies are required to investigate the relationship between fruit consumption and dental caries.