Plain radiographs are usually very informative, however CT is needed in selected cases, particularly in the detection of subtle fractures or in complex fractures

Bone window settings should always be viewed when reporting CT of the brain, chest and abdomen.

Complex  fractures

Fracture of the pelvis.

  • (A) section through the acetabular roof demonstrating an anterior column injury with displaced bony fragments.

  • (B) A coronal section showing the fracture of the acetabulum extending to the iliac bone superiorly.

The fractures and their displacement were much better demonstrated with CT than with radiographs of the pelvis.