Ultrasound Applications in Pediatric Orthopedics

Document Type : CURRENT CONCEPTS REVIEW

Authors

1 Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Medical School, Democritus University of Thrace, University General Hospital of Alexandroupolis, Alexandroupolis, Greece

2 Medical School, Democritus University of Thrace, University General Hospital of Alexandroupolis, Alexandroupolis, Greece

Abstract

Imaging techniques have significantly impacted physicians ’ capability for diagnosis and differential 
diagnosis for decades. The aim of this review is to update our knowledge regarding the use of US in 
orthopedic pediatric patients for diagnostic purposes or procedural/therapeutic purposes. This review 
demonstrates the application of US in trauma (long bone fractures, radial neck fractures, etc.), 
developmental anomalies such as developmental dysplasia of the hip and congenital dislocation of the 
patella, soft tissue pathologies (ganglion cyst, popliteal cyst, hemangioma, lipoma, etc.), tumors, 
apophysitis, joint effusion, and femoral acetabular impingement. US aid in musculoskeletal procedures 
has also been reported; US-guided procedures such as aspiration, injection, biopsy, foreign body 
removal, and peripheral nerve block reduce complications, thus making the procedures safer for the 
patient. Sonography is a fast, low-cost, mobile, non-invasive, and radiation-free diagnostic tool. Even 
though US requires a skilled operator and has a long learning curve, in experienced hands is the 
“orthopedic surgeon’s stethoscope”.
 Level of evidence: IV

Keywords

Main Subjects

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The Archives of Bone and Joint Surgery
Volume 12, Issue 7
July 2024
Pages 457-468

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History

  • Receive Date: 30 August 2021
  • Revise Date: 10 May 2024
  • Accept Date: 11 May 2024

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