Intraoperative radiological imaging: An update on modalities in trauma and orthopedic surgery

Intraoperative radiological imaging plays a key role in the management algorithm of patient care. Different intraoperative modalities have applications in the diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of patient affected by various medical or surgical conditions. Advances in technology, computer software, and integration of various radiological modalities have extended the applications of intraoperative imaging in health care. Intraoperative radiological imaging have evolved from the initial use of conventional fluoroscopy to current innovations of computed tomography (CT) such as three-dimensional cone-beam CT and magnetic resonance-based imaging. In fact, intraoperative imaging has become integral to most of trauma and orthopedic procedures. Apart from their role in diagnosis of a spectrum of orthopedic conditions like prosthetic joint infection, imaging systems assist orthopedic surgeons to perform minimally invasive procedures, improving patient safety and also enabling higher accuracy and lower revision rates. More importantly, advances in technologies are essential in safeguarding radiation safety regulations, thereby reducing the radiation dose to the patient and surgical team. Integration of various imaging technologies, improving quality of image acquisition, reduction of radiation dose, and seamless image transfer to allow decision-making process are crucial in the delivery of effective patient care.