title: Use of a laser guide to reduce screening time for the dynamic hip screw.
abstract: A prospective, randomized study was used to evaluate a laser guide to aim the image intensifier during the treatment of 52 patients with intertrochanteric fractures of the proximal femur using a dynamic hip screw. The laser guide reduces the fluoroscopic screening time by 40 per cent (P < 0.05). We conclude that laser aiming of the image intensifier has a role in training radiographers, and reducing the dosage of irradiation in theatre procedures.
authors.affiliation: Department of Orthopaedics and Trauma, Ipswich Hospital NHS Trust, UK.
authors.forename: A H
authors.initials: AH
authors.lastname: Robinson
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Moiz
authors.forename: J P
authors.initials: JP
authors.lastname: Hallett
mesh_terms: D001863:Bone Screws; D005069:Evaluation Studies as Topic; D005593:Fracture Fixation, Internal / Q000379:methods*; D006620:Hip Fractures / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D007834:Lasers; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011856:Radiographic Image Enhancement