Pre-Employment Low Back X-Rays: An Overview

摘要

Routine radiography of the lower spine of prospective employees has been commonplace for some time in a number of industries engaged in heavy labor. Reported use of the low back x-ray examination for screening purposes dates from the 1940's. The efficacy of the preemployment low back x ray is a strongly debated topic, particularly within industries where heavy or strenous labor is required. This overview is a summary of the literature and an exploration of the issues related to the low back x ray examination. The report reviews the objective, protocol, costs, efficacy, medicolegal aspects, and risks of the examination. The report is also provided as information for those radiologists and other physicians engaged in occupational medicine.