Comparison of Diagnostic Accuracy of Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma (FAST) vs Computed Tomography for the Diagnosis of Blunt Torso Trauma

Background: FAST and CT scan are both widely used imaging techniques for diagnosing blunt torso trauma and have their limitaions and advantages. Objective: To evaluate the Accuracy of Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma (FAST) vs Computed Tomography for diagnosing Blunt Torso Trauma. Methodology: A cross sectional research which was done in Lahore in emergency department of Mayo hospital and Services hospital. Total 125 participants took part in the study who were victims of blunt torso trauma by road traffic accidents damaging mainly spleen, kidneys, liver, retroperitoneum, bladder and pancreas. FAST scan using Toshiba, Nemio model, Convex probe having a frequency of 3.75 MHz was carried out. Pictures were capture with different abdominal views. CT scan using Toshiba, 16 slice Hitachi and Scenaria, 128 slices was also done on the same population after giving contrast material. Results: Mean age of population under study was 37.87±11.678. FAST scan was administered on all patients and then CT scan was administered. Out of 125 scans 77 FAST positive scans were confirmed and 48 negative scans were confirmed by using CT scan. The values of sensitivity, specificity, ppv and npv of FAST scan were calculated to be 100%, 91.67, 100% and 85.42%. Conclusion: Although FAST is also a very valuable tool, some of the critical injuries that need immediate attention for the patient's life may be overlooked so CT scan is considered the best option for diagnostic accuracy of Blunt torso trauma.