Photographic wound documentation of open fractures: An update for the digital generation

Abstract

Objective: To examine the availability of working cameras in UK emergency departments and to discuss the merits of digital imaging over Polaroid. Design: This study was conducted by means of a telephone questionnaire to 50 UK emergency departments. Results: It was found that 80% were able to produce either a working Polaroid or digital camera, and that 63% of emergency departments had a digital camera available. Conclusions: We report a pronounced increase in the ability of emergency departments to photograph open fractures, due in part to the availability of digital cameras. We recommend the appropriate use of these tools in the management of open fractures.