Sonographic evaluation of bone fractures: a reliable alternative in clinical practice?

Clin Imaging. 2012 May-Jun;36(3):203-8. doi: 10.1016/j.clinimag.2011.08.013.

Abstract

Objective: The objective was to compare the diagnostic accuracy of conventional radiography and ultrasonography (US) for the diagnosis of suspected bone fractures.

Method: Eighty-six patients were assessed using conventional radiography and US on the affected bone district.

Results: Radiographic and sonographic findings were concordant in 93% of cases. In one case, US suggested a fracture not seen on radiographic assessment. Ultrasonography showed a sensitivity of 0.94 and a specificity of 0.92.

Conclusion: In clinical practice, US could become the first diagnostic approach.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Child
  • Female
  • Fractures, Bone / diagnostic imaging*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Models, Biological
  • Radiography
  • Reproducibility of Results
  • Sensitivity and Specificity
  • Ultrasonography / methods*
  • Young Adult