Renowned Radiology Expert Opines on Doctors' Failure to Identify Wood Fragments in Patient's Leg

Case Overview

Questions to the Radiology expert and their responses

Do you routinely examine X-rays as described in the case summary?

I do routinely examine X-rays evaluating for possible foreign bodies.

What are the appropriate steps following the X-ray findings as described in the case summary?

I feel that an ultrasound evaluation of the leg would have been an appropriate step following the X-ray.

Are findings of 'Small focus of potential subcutaneous gas' indicative of any underlying issues?

'Small focus of potential subcutaneous gas' is primarily indicative of a break in the skin in that area. Subcutaneous gas can indicate infection as well.

Do you believe this patient may have had a better outcome if the care rendered had been different?

I believe this patient may have had a better outcome if an ultrasound was performed.

About the expert

This board-certified expert currently serves as Assistant Professor of Radiology at a major university medical center and as Director of Interventional Radiology at a government-owned medical center. He earned his MD from Georgetown University and completed fellowship training in Vascular and Interventional Radiology at the University of Virginia Health System. As a member of the Radiological Society of North America and the Society of Interventional Radiology, this expert is very highly regarded in his field.

E-007952

Specialties:

Radiology

Renowned Radiology Expert Opines on Doctors’ Failure to Identify Wood Fragments in Patient’s Leg