Advances in the application of ultrasound for fracture diagnosis
Complication-free and rapid fracture healing is the main purpose that is achieved by early diagnosis and individualized treatment regimen. Certain fractures may be undetected by X-ray due to the swelling of the soft tissue or fracture fragment <6 mm. This article by Du et al summarizes the current application options of ultrasound in the diagnosis and treatment of fractures. Lately, high-frequency ultrasound (8-12 MHz probe) is used to observe the bone cortex in the areas of pain and swelling. High-frequency color Doppler can also help physicians perform accurate closed fracture reduction. Nonetheless, the week point of this method is long bone fracture near the joint, where the accuracy is reduced. Monitoring the fracture healing is another potential way of use. This method is non-invasive, safe, non-radiating, and easily repeatable. Moreover, resent articles suggest ultrasonography use before or during the surgery to accurately locate the fracture surgical site and guide the incision.