INTRODUCTION: Postoperative X-rays, following a scarf osteotomy, are generally carried out as routine. The aim of this study was to assess the value of performing such investigations. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Retrospective data were collected regarding all scarf osteotomies performed by three consultant orthopaedic surgeons at a large teaching hospital. A review of routine postoperative X-rays was carried out. RESULTS: A total of 274 scarf osteotomies were included in the study. Of these, 95% were followed by at least one routine postoperative X-ray. In total, 412 X-rays were performed of which 11% were not commented upon by a radiologist or a surgeon. Of the X-rays with comments from both specialists, only one case was reported as abnormal by both radiologist and surgeon, with no change in management made as a result of these reports. In two cases, changes to standard management were made on the basis of the routine postoperative X-rays and only one of these was implemented solely on the basis of the routine postoperative images. CONCLUSIONS: The value of postoperative X-rays following a scarf osteotomy is questionable. We propose, on the basis of this study, that, unless clinically indicated, the routine use of postoperative X-rays following a scarf osteotomy should be abandoned.
INTRODUCTION: Postoperative X-rays, following a scarf osteotomy, are generally carried out as routine. The aim of this study was to assess the value of performing such investigations. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Retrospective data were collected regarding all scarf osteotomies performed by three consultant orthopaedic surgeons at a large teaching hospital. A review of routine postoperative X-rays was carried out. RESULTS: A total of 274 scarf osteotomies were included in the study. Of these, 95% were followed by at least one routine postoperative X-ray. In total, 412 X-rays were performed of which 11% were not commented upon by a radiologist or a surgeon. Of the X-rays with comments from both specialists, only one case was reported as abnormal by both radiologist and surgeon, with no change in management made as a result of these reports. In two cases, changes to standard management were made on the basis of the routine postoperative X-rays and only one of these was implemented solely on the basis of the routine postoperative images. CONCLUSIONS: The value of postoperative X-rays following a scarf osteotomy is questionable. We propose, on the basis of this study, that, unless clinically indicated, the routine use of postoperative X-rays following a scarf osteotomy should be abandoned.