Analysis of discrepancies between CT and operative findings in emergency laparotomies, highlighting improvements in accuracy.
Aims/Objectives This reaudit aimed to assess changes in the frequency, classification, and factors contributing to discrepancies between radiological CT findings and operative findings in emergency laparotomies, comparing results from two audit cycles. Methods The initial audit (2019–2020) included 114 cases, while the reaudit (2021–2023) analyzed 328 cases. Both audits evaluated discrepancies (major, minor, nil), and examined factors such as age, gender, reporting type, and timeliness. Statistical analyses, including chi-square tests and p-values, were used to identify trends. Results The initial audit found a discrepancy rate of 27.2%, with 11.4% classified as major. Reporting delays were noted, with only 23% completed within 24 hours. Recommendations focused on improving pre-operative communication and radiologist expertise. The reaudit showed a reduced discrepancy rate of 5.8%, with 21.1% major and 73.7% minor discrepancies. Age, gender, and reporting type showed no significant associations (p > 0.05). Discrepancies were often linked to complex conditions, while common findings like adhesional small bowel obstruction (14.9%) and gastric perforation (5.2%) demonstrated strong radiological accuracy. Conclusion The reaudit demonstrated a significant reduction in discrepancies, reflecting improvements in radiological accuracy and processes. Efforts should focus on refining workflows, enhancing diagnostic accuracy for complex cases, and ensuring timely reporting to maintain high standards and improve outcomes.
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Haji et al. (2025) studied this question.
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