Bedside Ultrasound vs X-Ray for the Diagnosis of Forearm Fractures in Children

A Simulation Model for the Handheld Ultrasound Diagnosis of Pediatric Forearm Fractures

INTRODUCTION

Handheld ultrasound (HHU) devices have gained prominence in emergency care settings and post-graduate training, but their application in the diagnosis of pediatric fractures remains under-explored. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness and accuracy of an HHU device for diagnosing pediatric forearm fractures using a simulation model.

METHODS

The materials for the basic pediatric fracture model include turkey bones soaked in white vinegar to make them pliable, food-grade gelatine, and plastic containers. Ultrasound analysis of the models was done with an HHU device, Sonosite İViz US (FUJIFILM Sonosite, Inc.; Bothell, Washington USA). Four different fracture patterns (transverse fracture, oblique fracture, greenstick fracture, and a torus fracture) and one model without fracture were used in this study. Twenty-six Emergency Medicine residents sonographically evaluated different bone models in order to define the presence and absence of fracture and the fracture subtype. The participants' ability to obtain adequate images and the time taken to create and recognize the images were evaluated and recorded. After the sonographic examination, the residents were also asked for their opinion on the model as a teaching tool.

RESULTS

All participants (100%) recognized the normal bone model and the fracture, regardless of the fracture type. The consistency analysis between the practitioners indicated a substantial agreement (weighted kappa value of 0.707). The duration to identify the target pathology in fracture models was significantly longer for the greenstick fracture (78.57 [SD = 30.45] seconds) model compared to other models. The majority of participants (92.3%) agreed that the model used would be a useful teaching tool for learning ultrasound diagnosis of pediatric forearm fractures.

CONCLUSIONS

All participants successfully identified both the normal bone model and the presence of fractures, irrespective of the fracture type. Significantly, the identification of the greenstick fracture took longer compared to other fracture types. Moreover, the majority of participants acknowledged the model's utility as a teaching tool for learning ultrasound diagnosis of pediatric forearm fractures.

Sonographic Fracture Diagnosis in Children and Adolescents

BACKGROUND

Clinical examination after trauma, especially in young children, often proves difficult. As a result, the majority of images show unremarkable findings in the imaging workup of trauma by radiography. Sonography represents an imaging technique without the use of X-rays. As the quality of ultrasound equipment has increased over the past 20 years, numerous studies have demonstrated that fractures in children and adolescents can be detected with very high sensitivity and specificity by sonography.

METHOD

This paper reviews the results obtained so far in the literature. Based on these findings, the importance of sonographic fracture diagnosis in childhood and adolescence for the most important locations is demonstrated.

RESULTS

When examining with a high-frequency linear transducer, sensitivities and specificities of more than 90 % can be achieved for the detection of fractures. Dislocations are also reliably detected. In contrast to X-ray examination, sonography allows the diagnosis of cartilage and soft-tissue injuries. Sonography reveals callus formation earlier than radiographs. The examination causes less pain than X-ray examination. If sonographic clarification is limited purely to fracture detection or exclusion, less time is required compared to X-ray diagnosis. The procedure can be learned quickly. If the documentation follows a defined standard examination procedure, the results can also be reproduced by non-examiners.

CONCLUSION

So far, sonography has only been an additive procedure in fracture diagnosis. However, there are now initial recommendations for sonographic fracture diagnosis alone, such as in skull, clavicle and non-displaced distal forearm fractures.

KEY POINTS

· Sonography can be used to detect or rule out fractures very sensitively.. · Sonographic examination causes less pain than X-ray examination.. · Sonography is usually an additive procedure in fracture diagnosis.. · In the meantime, sonography alone may be sufficient for diagnosing individual fractures..

ZITIERWEISE

· Moritz JD. Sonografische Frakturdiagnostik im Kindes- und Jugendalter. Fortschr Röntgenstr 2023; 195: 790 - 796.

Ultrasound assistance in treatment with elastic stable intramedullary nail fixation in radial and ulnar fractures in children

PURPOSE

Radial and ulnar fractures are one of the most common fractures in children. When closed reduction of fractures fails, elastic stable intramedullary nail (ESIN) fixation can mostly be used under the guidance of fluoroscopy. In this study, we evaluated the effect of ultrasound (US) as assistance for radial and ulnar fracture reduction and the insertion of ESINs.

METHODS

There were 56 patients with midshaft radial and ulnar fractures included in our hospital from March 2019 to August 2021. After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria and according to the treatment method, they were divided into the US group (patients treated with US assistance) and the conventional group (C-group, patients treated with fluoroscopy guidance). All patients' clinical data were collected. Operation time, fluoroscopy times, radiation dose, and post-operative complications were analyzed. The elbow function was evaluated using the Mayo Elbow Performance Index.

RESULTS

There were 26 patients in the US group and 30 in the C-group. The average operation time was 44.5±19.4 min in the US group and 65.1±16.2 min in the C-group. There were significant differences regarding the surgery time, fluoroscopy time, and radiation dose between the groups (all p = 0.001). The average follow-up time was 13.5±3.1 months. No significant difference was found regarding radial nerve injury, extensor pollicis longus rupture, non-union or delayed union, ulnar nerve injury, or acute compartment syndrome. There was no difference in elbow function at the final follow-up.

CONCLUSION

US guidance can be adopted for the treatment of displaced radial and ulnar fracture reduction and the insertion of ESINs. It can significantly decrease fluoroscopy times, radiation doses, and duration of surgery.

A Narrative Review of the Uses of Ultrasound in the Evaluation, Analgesia, and Treatment of Distal Forearm Fractures

BACKGROUND

Distal forearm fractures are a commonly encountered injury in the emergency department (ED), accounting for 500,000 to 1.5 million visits and 17% of ED fractures. The evaluation and management of these fractures frequently employs x-ray studies, conscious sedation, closed reduction, and splinting. Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) can offer significant benefit in the diagnosis and management of these common injuries.

OBJECTIVE OF THE REVIEW

To review the clinical utility of POCUS in the diagnosis of distal forearm fractures, as well as to demonstrate the performance of ultrasound-guided analgesia delivery and ultrasound-guided reduction technique.

DISCUSSION

The initial evaluation of forearm injuries frequently includes x-ray studies. However, multiple studies have shown ultrasound to be sensitive and specific for distal radius fractures, with the added value of detecting soft tissue injuries missed by conventional radiography. POCUS may also facilitate analgesia through the use of ultrasound-guided hematoma blocks, which removes the need for conscious sedation prior to manipulation. Finally, POCUS can be used after manipulation to assess cortical realignment of the bone fragments and spare the patient multiple reduction attempts and repeat radiographs.

CONCLUSION

Distal forearm fractures are common, and the emergency physician should be adept with the evaluation and management of these injuries. POCUS can be a reliable modality in the detection of these fractures and can be used to facilitate analgesia and augment success of reduction attempts. These techniques may decrease length of stay, improve patient pain, and decrease reduction attempts.

Non-Inferiority of Point-of-Care Ultrasound Compared to Radiography to Diagnose Upper Extremity Fractures in Children

Conventional X-ray imaging for fracture diagnosis is time-consuming and exposes patients to ionizing radiation. Additionally, the positioning of the injured limb for standardized X-ray imaging is painful. Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) is increasingly available in medical offices and emergency rooms. This study aimed to prove the non-inferiority of POCUS compared to X-ray imaging with respect to diagnostic sensitivity, pain, and investigation time in the diagnosis of long-bone fractures of the upper extremity in children. Children and adolescents (1−18 years old) presenting to the UKBB emergency service between May 2020 and May 2021 with suspected upper extremity fracture were included in the study. Before obtaining X-ray images, we conducted a POCUS examination of the injured limb. Pain scores at inclusion as well as maximum pain scores during X-ray and ultrasound examinations were documented. The duration of POCUS and X-ray examinations was compared. We examined 403 children with POCUS and plain X-ray imaging. The mean age (±SD) of the children was 10.6 (±3.5) years. The non-inferiority of POCUS compared to X-ray was confirmed with an estimated sensitivity of 0.95 and a lower confidence interval of 0.93. Maximum pain during POCUS was significantly lower compared to pain at inclusion (p = 0.002) or maximum pain during radiographic examination (p = 0.03). POCUS examination took 3.9 (±2.9) min in the mean whilst the mean duration for obtaining the X-ray images was 16 (±37) min (p < 0.001). POCUS for diagnosing upper extremity fractures in children proved as sensitive as standard X-ray imaging and was significantly faster and less painful. Future prospective studies are required to confirm our findings.

Ultrasonography-Guided Combination with Elbow Arthrography-Assisted Minimally Invasive Treatment of Radial Neck Fractures in Young Children

Background

A radius neck fracture in children is a common fracture that not only affects the growth and development of children but also has a certain impact on the function of children's elbow joints.

Objective

To probe into the application value of ultrasonography- (US-) guided combination with elbow arthrography in the minimally invasive treatment of radial neck fractures in young children, summarize its clinical effect and provide a minimally invasive, safe, effective, and reliable method for treating radial neck fractures in young children.

Methods

Seventy-three patients with type III or IV radial neck fractures were treated from June 2013 to December 2020 and were divided into the Métaizeau group (n = 31, treatment group) and Kirschner wire (k-wire) k-wire group (n = 42, control group). The Métaizeau group was given US-guided combination with elbow arthrography-assisted modified Métaizeau technique, the k-wire group received open reduction and internal fixation with k-wire and compared the surgical effect of the two groups.

Results

In comparison with the k-wire group, time of operation, intraoperative bleeding volume, and hospital stay were signally junior to those in the Métaizeau group (P < 0.05). After surgery, in comparison with the k-wire group, the number of degrees to contralateral flexion or forearm rotation was visually lower in the Métaizeau group (P < 0.05), and postoperative complication incidence in the Métaizeau group was visually lower than that in k-wire group (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

In the minimally invasive treatment of radial neck fractures, US-guided combination with elbow arthrography in young children has better efficacy and high safety. It can be widely promoted and applied clinically.

[Fracture sonography of the extremities]

In this article the basic principles of fracture sonography and meaningful areas of application in children and adults are explained. The sonographic fracture signs are presented and the typical areas of application, i.e. clavicular fracture, acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocation, proximal humerus fracture, elbow fracture, wrist fracture, metacarpal 5 fracture, palmar plate, femoral bulge fracture, proximal tibia fracture, midfoot V fracture, toddler's fracture and march fracture, are outlined and known diagnostic algorithms are listed. When used correctly, fracture sonography is a safe, gentle and rapid diagnostic method.

Ultrasound in forearm fractures: a pragmatic study assessing the utility of Point of Care Ultrasound (PoCUS) in identifying and managing distal radius fractures

BACKGROUND

Point of Care Ultrasound (PoCUS) is a safe, non-invasive tool for identifying distal radius fractures and can potentially be utilised to assist clinicians to reduce displaced fractures. We aim to test whether PoCUS is accurate to identify distal radius fractures and to determine how PoCUS performs as a tool to confirm a successful fracture reduction.

METHODS

A pragmatic prospective observational study was done in adult patients presenting with forearm injuries resulting in Colle's type distal radius fractures. Adults who presented to the emergency department (ED) with a suspected distal forearm fracture from August 2018 to July 2019 were conveniently sampled for inclusion into the study when a trained ED ultra-sonographer was available. PoCUS scans over the point of maximal tenderness were done using a high frequency linear transducer (7.5-10 mHz) prior to X-ray. Patients who required a manipulation of the fracture had a second ultrasound scan immediately after the procedure before the second X-ray was ordered. PoCUS scans were compared to X-rays for accuracy in both groups.

RESULTS

Fractures were identified in 44 out of 47 included patients using both PoCUS and X-ray modalities. This showed a sensitivity of 100% (95% CI: 90-100%) and specificity of 100% (95% CI: 31-100%). Fracture manipulation was required in 35 out of 44 patients. The sensitivity and specificity of PoCUS in determining alignment accuracy when compared to X-ray were 100% (95% CI: 83-100%) and 64% (95% CI: 32-88%) respectively. The PPV and NPV were 86% (95% CI: 66-95%) and 100% (95% CI: 56-100%) respectively. Ten out of 44 (23%) patients with distal radius fractures ultimately required an Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF).

CONCLUSION

Our study supports the use of PoCUS for identifying distal radius forearm fractures and may have some value in assisting clinicians to determine post reduction success. We still advocate using standard X-ray radiographs to confirm successful or adequate cortical alignment following a manipulation.

Diagnostic Accuracy of 3D Ultrasound and Artificial Intelligence for Detection of Pediatric Wrist Injuries

Wrist trauma is common in children, typically requiring radiography for diagnosis and treatment planning. However, many children do not have fractures and are unnecessarily exposed to radiation. Ultrasound performed at bedside could detect fractures prior to radiography. Modern tools including three-dimensional ultrasound (3DUS) and artificial intelligence (AI) have not yet been applied to this task. Our purpose was to assess (1) feasibility, reliability, and accuracy of 3DUS for detection of pediatric wrist fractures, and (2) accuracy of automated fracture detection via AI from 3DUS sweeps. Children presenting to an emergency department with unilateral upper extremity injury to the wrist region were scanned on both the affected and unaffected limb. Radiographs of the symptomatic limb were obtained for comparison. Ultrasound scans were read by three individuals to determine reliability. An AI network was trained and compared against the human readers. Thirty participants were enrolled, resulting in scans from fifty-five wrists. Readers had a combined sensitivity of 1.00 and specificity of 0.90 for fractures. AI interpretation was indistinguishable from human interpretation, with all fractures detected in the test set of 36 images (sensitivity = 1.0). The high sensitivity of 3D ultrasound and automated AI ultrasound interpretation suggests that ultrasound could potentially rule out fractures in the emergency department.

Accuracy of point-of-care ultrasound for determining the adequacy of pediatric forearm fracture reductions

BACKGROUND

The objective of the present study was to the determine the accuracy of point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) in assessing closed reduction (CR) of pediatric forearm fractures in a pediatric emergency setting.

METHODS

After determination of the need for CR using X-ray images by an orthopedic consultant, POCUS examinations were performed just before and after the reduction attempt. The transducer was positioned longitudinally over the dorsal, volar, and lateral surfaces of the radius and ulna to view the fracture site. The presence of angulation, displacement, or bayonetting of the fracture fragments was recorded. The adequacy of realignment according to the POCUS and the orthopedic consultant's final determination were recorded.

RESULTS

Sixty-two patients were enrolled in the study and 96 bones were evaluated. The sensitivity and specificity of POCUS for adequacy of CR were 95.8% [95% confidence interval (CI): 88.3-99.1)] and 95.8% (95% CI: 78.8-99.8), the positive predictive value was 98.5% (95% CI: 91.0-99.7), and the negative predictive value was 88.4% (95% CI: 71.6-95.8). The corresponding positive and negative likelihood ratios were 23 (3.37-156.77) and 0.04 (0.01-0.12). There was high agreement between POCUS and X-ray images for predicting adequacy of CR [κ: 0.892 (±0.053)]. There was also a significant correlation between POCUS and X-ray measurements of angulation and displacement performed before and after CR, respectively (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Our study has reported the successful use of POCUS for the management of pediatric forearm fractures in a pediatric emergency department. Point-of-care ultrasound can minimize radiation exposure and appears to be an alternative and accurate tool for reduction attempts.

Using ultrasound to diagnose long bone fractures

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.

Accuracy of Point-of-Care Ultrasound in Detecting Fractures in Children: A Validation Study

This study sought to compare point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) and conventional X-rays for detecting fractures in children. This was a prospective, non-randomized, convenience-sample study conducted in five medical centers. It evaluated pediatric patients with trauma. POCUS and X-ray examination results were treated as dichotomous variables with fracture either present or absent. Descriptive statistics were calculated in addition to prevalence, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value, including 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The Cohen κ coefficient was determined as a measurement of the level of agreement. A total of 554 examinations were performed with POCUS and X-ray. On physical examination, swelling, localized hematoma and functional limitation were found in 66.73%, 33.78% and 53.74% of participants, respectively. The most-studied areas were limbs and hands/feet (58.19% and 38.27%), whereas the thorax was less represented (3.54%). Sensitivity of POCUS was 91.67% (95% CI, 76.41-97.82%) for high-skill providers and 71.50 % (95% CI, 64.75-77.43%) for standard-skill providers. Specificity was 88.89% (95% CI, 73.00-96.34%) and 82.91% (95% CI, 77.82-87.06%) for high- and standard-skill providers, respectively. Positive predictive value was 89.19% (95% CI, 73.64-96.48%) and 75.90% (95% CI, 69.16-81.59%) for high- and standard-skill providers, respectively. Negative predictive value was 91.43% (95% CI, 75.81-97.76%) and 79.44% (95% CI, 74.21-83.87%) for high- and standard-skill providers, respectively. The Cohen κ coefficient showed very good agreement (0.81) for high-skill providers, but moderate agreement (0.54) for standard-skill providers. We noted good diagnostic accuracy of POCUS in evaluating fracture, with excellent sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive value for high-skill providers.

Surveillance ultrasonography for conservative treatment of femoral shaft fractures in young children

BACKGROUND

The treatment for femoral shaft fracture (FSF) depends on the age of the patient. While the Pavlik harness is the first choice for patients under 6 months of age, spica casting is preferred for patients over 6 months and under preschool age. Minimally-invasive surgery using elastic stable intramedullary nails is also used in some cases. Skin traction is another treatment choice for some patients who are not candidates for the above methods. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of surveillance ultrasonography (US) for the conservative treatment of FSFs in young children.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This retrospective study included 92 children who were diagnosed with FSF in our hospital from April 2017 to May 2019. After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, they were divided into US surveillance (A) and control (B) groups. All patients received conservative treatment by skin traction. For group A, US was used to assess the femur fractures and adjust its reduction on days 1, 3, 5, 7, 10, and 14 until the fracture stabilized. For group B, the fractures were checked by radiographs on days 1, 3, 5, 7, 10, and 14 until the callus appeared. The FSF angle was measured using anteroposterior and lateral radiographs.

RESULTS

All patients were followed up for 18 months. The radiographic evaluation of both groups at the final follow-up showed a significant difference in the FSF angle. The radiograph times and accumulated radiation also showed significant differences between the two groups. However, there was no significant difference in the incidence of complications.

CONCLUSIONS

For FSF closed reduction, surveillance US is a better option compared to radiographs in children treated by skin traction. This approach can significantly decrease exposure to X-ray radiation and improve the reduction.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III.

Nurse practitioner administered point-of-care ultrasound compared with X-ray for children with clinically non-angulated distal forearm fractures in the ED: a diagnostic study

BACKGROUND

Paediatric distal forearm fractures are a common ED presentation. They can be diagnosed with point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) as an alternative to X-rays. Given that ED nurse practitioners (NPs) are relied on for the diagnosis of paediatric fractures, it is important to describe the diagnostic accuracy of NP-conducted POCUS versus X-ray.

METHODS

This prospective diagnostic study was conducted in a tertiary paediatric hospital in Queensland, Australia, between February 2018 and April 2019. Participants were children aged 4-16 years with a clinically non-angulated, suspected distal forearm fracture. Diagnosis from 6-view NP-administered POCUS of the distal radius and ulna was compared against the reference standard of 2-view X-ray. Each patient received both imaging modalities. Overall forearm diagnosis was classified as 'no', 'buckle' or 'other' fracture for both modalities. The primary outcome was diagnostic accuracy for 'any' fracture ('buckle' and 'other' fractures combined). Secondary outcomes included diagnostic accuracy for 'other' fractures versus 'buckle' and 'no' fractures combined, and pain, imaging duration and preference for modality.

RESULTS

Of 204 recruited patients, 129 had X-ray-diagnosed forearm fractures. The sensitivity and specificity for NP-administered POCUS were 94.6% (95% CI 89.2% to 97.3%) and 85.3% (95% CI 75.6% to 91.6%), respectively. 'Other' fractures (mostly cortical breach fractures), when compared with 'buckle'/ 'no' fractures, had sensitivity 81.0% (95% CI 69.1% to 89.1%) and specificity 95.9% (95% CI 91.3% to 98.1%). Pain and imaging duration were clinically similar between modalities. There was a preference for POCUS by patients, parents and NPs.

CONCLUSIONS

NP-administered POCUS had clinically acceptable diagnostic accuracy for paediatric patients presenting with non-angulated distal forearm injuries. This included good sensitivity for diagnosis of 'any' fracture and good specificity for diagnosis of cortical breach fractures alone. Given the preference for POCUS, and the lack of difference in pain and duration between modalities, future research should consider functional outcomes comparing POCUS with X-ray in this population in a randomised controlled trial.

Treatment of displaced radial neck fractures under ultrasonographic guidance in children

PURPOSE

This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of reduction under ultrasonographic (US) guidance with Kirschner wires (K-wires) and fixation with elastic stable intramedullary nails (ESINs) in the treatment of radial neck fractures (RNFs).

METHODS

This retrospective study included 50 children treated for Judet types III and IV RNFs at our hospital from September 2015 to November 2018. Patients were divided into two groups: group A (without US) and group B (with US). Group A patients were treated using the Métaizeau technique; one K-wire was used for reduction under the guidance of X-ray fluoroscopy. Group B patients were treated using the same technique, but under the guidance of US. Post-operative radiographs, elbow function, and complications were analyzed.

RESULTS

All patients were followed up over a period of 12 months. Five patients in group A had posterior interosseous nerve (PIN) injury, whereas no patient in group B had PIN injury (p = 0.016). The use of US guidance resulted in lower radiation exposure and shorter operation time. According to the Mayo Elbow Performance Index, there was no significant difference between the two groups (p = 0.814), including post-operative complications (radial head necrosis, fracture displacement, or stiffness).

CONCLUSION

US guidance during surgery is feasible to treat Judet type III and IV RNFs. US guidance can significantly reduce X-ray radiation exposure and the risk of PIN injury.

Diagnostic accuracy of ultrasound for upper extremity fractures in children: A systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

Ultrasound has an excellent diagnostic accuracy for fractures that is reportedly comparable to plain radiographs. We aim to summarize the diagnostic accuracy of ultrasound for upper extremity fractures in children.

METHODS

Databases were searched from inception through November 2019 using pre-defined index terms, including "ultrasound," "fractures of upper extremities" and "children". The study is reported using Preferred Reporting Items for a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Diagnostic Test Accuracy Studies (PRISMA-DTA). Meta-analysis of the diagnostic accuracy of ultrasound for fractures was conducted using the random-effects bivariate model. Subgroup analysis of fracture site (elbow vs non-elbow fractures) was also performed. Meta-regression was performed to determine if the site of fracture affected the diagnostic accuracy.

RESULTS

Thirty-two studies were identified in the meta-analysis. Ultrasound for fractures of the upper extremities has a sensitivity: 0.95 (95% CI: 0.93-0.97), specificity: 0.95 (95% CI: 0.91-0.98), positive likelihood ratio: 21.1 (95% CI: 10.8-41.5) and negative likelihood ratio: 0.05 (95% CI: 0.03-0.07), with an area under ROC (AUROC) curve of 0.98 (95% CI: 0.97-0.99). Subgroup analysis for elbow fracture showed ultrasound has a sensitivity: 0.95 (95% CI: 0.86-0.98), specificity: 0.87 (95% CI: 0.76-0.94), positive likelihood ratio: 7.3 (95% CI: 3.7-14.4) and negative likelihood ratio: 0.06 (95% CI: 0.02-0.16), with an AUROC of 0.96 (95% CI: 0.94-0.97). Meta-regression suggested the fracture sites would affect diagnostic accuracy of ultrasound (elbow vs non-elbow, p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Current evidence suggests ultrasound has excellent diagnostic accuracy for non-elbow upper extremity fractures in children, serving as an alternative diagnostic modality to plain radiographs.

Getting started in paediatric emergency medicine point-of-care ultrasound: Five fundamental applications

Point-of-care ultrasound is a valuable tool in the Paediatric Emergency Medicine department. It can be utilised at the patient bedside to augment the physical examination, improving clinical accuracy. Alternatively, it can safeguard needle guided procedures and improve their success rate. It allows real-time information to be gathered without exposing the child to ionising radiation. This article outlines five fundamental applications and how it can be incorporated into clinical practice.

Point-of-care ultrasound in primary care: a systematic review of generalist performed point-of-care ultrasound in unselected populations

BACKGROUND

Both the interest and actual extent of use of point-of-care ultrasound, PoCUS, among general practitioners or family physicians are increasing and training is also increasingly implemented in residency programs. However, the amount of research within the field is still rather limited compared to what is seen within other specialties in which it has become more established, such as in the specialty of emergency medicine. An assumption is made that what is relevant for emergency medicine physicians and their populations is also relevant to the general practitioner, as both groups are generalists working in unselected populations. This systematic review aims to examine the extent of use and to identify clinical studies on the use of PoCUS by either general practitioners or emergency physicians on indications that are relevant for the former, both in their daily practice and in out-of-hours services.

METHODS

Systematic searches were done in PubMed/MEDLINE using terms related to general practice, emergency medicine, and ultrasound.

RESULTS

On the extent of use, we identified 19 articles, as well as 26 meta-analyses and 168 primary studies on the clinical use of PoCUS. We found variable, but generally low, use among general practitioners, while it seems to be thoroughly established in emergency medicine in North America, and increasingly also in the rest of the world. In terms of clinical studies, most were on diagnostic accuracy, and most organ systems were studied; the heart, lungs/thorax, vessels, abdominal and pelvic organs, obstetric ultrasound, the eye, soft tissue, and the musculoskeletal system. The studies found in general either high sensitivity or high specificity for the particular test studied, and in some cases high total accuracy and superiority to other established diagnostic imaging modalities. PoCUS also showed faster time to diagnosis and change in management in some studies.

CONCLUSION

Our review shows that generalists can, given a certain level of pre-test probability, safely use PoCUS in a wide range of clinical settings to aid diagnosis and better the care of their patients.

Point-of-care ultrasound compared with conventional radiographic evaluation in children with suspected distal forearm fractures in the Netherlands: a diagnostic accuracy study

BACKGROUND

Distal forearm fractures are common in children. The reference standard to diagnose these fractures is by conventional radiography, which exposes these patients to harmful radiation. Ultrasound (US) seems to be a good alternative. However, emergency physicians (EPs) in the Netherlands have limited experience in using US for diagnosing fractures in children.

OBJECTIVE

The primary objective was to determine the accuracy of US, performed by a Dutch EP, compared with conventional radiography, in diagnosing distal forearm fractures in children. As a secondary objective, differences in pain scores during the performance of both US and plain radiography were determined.

METHODS

Children, aged between 0 and 14 years old, suspected of having a distal forearm fracture were enrolled at the Emergency Department. US and radiographic findings were compared. Statistics for accuracy were calculated. Pain scores were recorded during US and radiography and compared as well. All participating operators received an hour-long pretrial training.

RESULTS

100 patients were enrolled. The mean age was 9.5 years (SD, 3.6), and 50% were women. Overall diagnostic accuracy was 92% (95% CI 85%-96%). The sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, positive and negative likelihood ratios for US were 95% (95% CI 87% to 99%), 86% (95% CI 71% to 95%), 92% (95% CI 83% to 97%), 91% (95% CI 76% to 98%), 6.86 (95% CI 3.04 to 15.51) and 0.05 (95% CI 0.02 to 0.17), respectively. The pain scores during US and radiographic imaging were 3.3 and 4.6, respectively (p<0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, we showed that US is an accurate method for diagnosing distal forearm fractures in children. The main advantages are that it is radiation-free and rapidly practicable, and that patients experience it as less painful than radiography. Moreover, this study has proven that with minimal experience in US, good diagnostic accuracy can be achieved after brief training.

Intraoperative ultrasound-guided reduction of femoral shaft fractures using intramedullary nailing: a technical note

OBJECTIVES

Intramedullary (IM) nailing is the preferred method for treatment of femoral shaft fractures. However, for the surgical staff and the patients, exposure to large dose of X-rays is inevitable during the procedure. In this paper, a new technique based on ultrasound is proposed to guide the reduction of femoral fractures, reducing radiation exposure.

METHODS AND RESULTS

By means of particular continuous transverse and multiplanar longitudinal scanning, the deformity pattern information of the fracture could be efficiently acquired. Adequate reduction could be achieved under the real-time guidance of intraoperative ultrasound.

CONCLUSIONS

Intraoperative ultrasound can guide the reduction of femoral shaft fracture using IM nailing, and reduce the radiation exposure of medical staff and patients.

Recent Advances in Technology and Its Applications to Pediatric Emergency Care

Advances in technology are continuously transforming medical care, including pediatric emergency medicine. The increasing adoption of point-of-care ultrasound examination can improve timely diagnoses without radiation and aids the performance of common procedures. The recent dramatic increase in electronic health record adoption offers an opportunity for enhanced clinical decision-making support. Simulation training and advances in technologies can provide continued proficiency training despite decreasing opportunities for pediatric procedures and cardiorespiratory resuscitation performance. This article reviews these and other recent advances in technology that have had the greatest impact on the current practice of pediatric emergency medicine.

The role of ultrasound as a problem-solving tool in the assessment of paediatric musculoskeletal injuries

Musculoskeletal trauma in the paediatric population covers a wide range of injuries; although many overlap with their adult counterparts, others are exclusive to the immature skeletal system. Ultrasound is a versatile tool particularly suited to both the imaging of children and the dynamic assessment of musculoskeletal injuries. This pictorial review aims to discuss a range of injuries, focusing on those commonly encountered in children. We shall describe the muscle-tendon-bone complex and changes that occur with increasing skeletal maturity and how this affects the type of injury encountered.

Ultrasonography-guided reduction of pediatric radial neck fractures

Background

Treatment of displaced and angulated radial neck fractures in children is controversial and challenging. Numerous studies have been conducted regarding treatment algorithms and surgical techniques that use fluoroscopy. However, ultrasonography (US)-guided reduction of pediatric radial neck fractures has not been reported yet. We aimed to determine the safety and efficacy of US-guided reduction and fixation of radial neck fractures in children.

Methods

Among 28 cases of radial neck fracture from 2014 to 2016, 12 were classified as type III or IV according to the Judet classification. All 12 patients underwent US-guided reduction and percutaneous fixation with Kirschner wire and follow-up for more than 6 months. US was used primarily to monitor the angulation and reduction of the radial neck. Fluoroscopy was applied to confirm the fixation with Kirschner wire. Dose area product (DAP; mGy/cm²) was measured to assess per-procedure radiation dose. Radiological and clinical results were evaluated at 6 months after the surgery by using the Metaizeau criteria.

Results

Of the patients, 4 were boys and 8 were girls, with a mean age of 7.7 years (range, 5–11 years). Judet type III fractures accounted for 83% of all injuries. The mean preoperative radial angulation was 62.5° (range: 46°–76°). The mean postoperative radial angulation was 5.6° (range: 2°–9°). The mean fluoroscopy time was 31 s (range: 10–73 s), and the mean DAP was 10.7 mGy/cm² (range: 7.2–18.7 mGy/cm²). The mean follow-up period was 18.3 months (range, 8–24 months). According to the Metaizeau criteria, 10 cases were excellent and 2 cases were good at the last follow-up.

Conclusions

US-guided reduction and percutaneous fixation is safe and reliable option to treat displaced radial neck fractures in children.

Minimal training sufficient to diagnose pediatric wrist fractures with ultrasound

BACKGROUND

In children, non-fractured wrists generally need no treatment and those that are fractured may only require a 3-week cast without any clinical follow-up. The ability to perform a point-of-care triage decision if radiographs are needed could improve patient flow and decrease unnecessary radiographs. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of ultrasound (US) as a point-of-care triage tool for pediatric wrist injuries with limited training.

METHODS

Physicians with no previous US experience attended a 1.5 h course in the use of US to diagnose distal radius fractures at the Emergency Department (ED). The physicians firstly used US to diagnose a potential fracture and, if the patient had a fracture, grouped the patient according to how they wanted him/her to be treated based on US. The physician then interpreted the subsequent radiographs and decided on a treatment based on this information. Consultant traumatologists and a senior radiologist established a gold standard for correct treatment and radiological diagnosis, respectively.

RESULTS

One hundred and sixteen injuries in 115 patients were included. The ED physician identified 75 fractures on radiographs. With the exception of a minimal buckle fracture, all were identified on US. US had a tendency to interpret complete fractures on radiographs as incomplete (n = 7) leading to incorrect treatment decisions.

CONCLUSIONS

In the hands of an US novice, US examination is comparable with radiographs as a point-of-care tool to distinguish a fractured wrist from a non-fractured one. US is not, however, as good as radiographs for placing fractured wrists into the correct treatment group.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III. Diagnostic study of non-consecutive patients.