An algorithmic approach to the roentgenographic evaluation of head trauma: medical and financial implications.

An algorithm was devised for the evaluation of patients with acute head trauma. The effectiveness of this strategy was tested with a retrospective chart review of 608 patients seen in a community hospital emergency room. The results of the algorithmic approach were compared to the original management of the patients. A financial savings of 65% was achieved and no significant intracranial pathology was missed using this approach.