Radiology at war.

Abstract

It can be assumed that the high percentage of wounded sent immediately from the triage area to the department of radiology was a reflection of the necessity for X-rays. The radiological examination was essential in reaching the correct diagnosis, and the radiologist was the central consultant, as by giving the diagnostic information and performing therapeutic angiographic intervention, he actively participated in the treatment of the patient. The radiologist and the surgeon together reached the final decision as to which injury prevailed and in which sequence treatment had to be planned. Hence, the department of radiology became the vital link in flow of patients from the sorting area to the operating theatre.