Annals of emergency medicine
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Chest ultrasonography has been reported as an accurate imaging modality and potentially superior to chest radiographs in diagnosing traumatic rib fractures. However, few studies have compared ultrasonography to the reference standard of computed tomography (CT), with no systematic reviews published on the topic to date. Our objective was to summarize the evidence comparing the test characteristics of chest ultrasonography to CT in diagnosing rib fractures. ⋯ Chest ultrasonography is both sensitive and highly specific in diagnosing rib fractures following blunt trauma.
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Challenges in transitioning from obstetric to primary care in the postpartum period may increase emergency department (ED) visits. This study described the frequency, characteristics, and predictors of maternal ED visits in the postpartum period. ⋯ Almost one third of ED visits in the postpartum occurred within 6 weeks immediately after delivery. Potential gaps in equitable access and quality of prenatal care should be bridged by appropriate transitions to primary care in the postpartum period.