Using ultrasound to diagnose long bone fractures

JAAPA. 2020 Feb;33(2):33-37. doi: 10.1097/01.JAA.0000651736.02537.ef.

Abstract

Point-of-care ultrasound may be an alternative to radiographs for diagnosing long bone fractures when medical resources are limited. Safe and timesaving, ultrasound also can be used in the ED as a screening tool for suspected long bone fractures and can detect associated musculoskeletal injuries. Ultrasound can be used in radiation-sensitive patients such as children and pregnant patients.Studies have found that clinicians using ultrasound can detect long bone fractures with an average 90% sensitivity and specificity after an average of 1 to 4 hours total of didactic and practical training. More research is needed to determine standards for ultrasound training, patient morbidity outcomes, cost effectiveness, and insurance benefits.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Arm Bones / diagnostic imaging*
  • Arm Bones / injuries*
  • Child
  • Emergency Medicine / methods*
  • Fractures, Bone / diagnostic imaging*
  • Humans
  • Leg Bones / diagnostic imaging*
  • Leg Bones / injuries*
  • Patient Safety
  • Patient Satisfaction
  • Ultrasonography / methods*