Usefulness of Ultrasonography and Radiography in the Evaluation of Distal Forearm Fractures in Children: A Narrative Review
Utilidad de la ecografía y la radiografía en la evaluación de las fracturas distales del antebrazo en niños: una revisión narrativa
Diego Alberto Pérez Pinzón, Carla Yaneth Pinzón Bernal, Charles Johan Saldarriaga Espinosa, Valentina Montoya Pérez, María Camila Taborda Mejía, Luis David Chavarria Granda, Laura Cristina López Figueroa, Miguel Andrés Vargas Riascos, Leonardo Bravo Villareal
Abstract
Pediatric fractures, especially distal forearm fractures, represent a significant global medical concern, affecting up to 50% of pediatric fracture cases. This narrative review aims to compare diagnostic modalities to determine which offers higher accuracy, minimizes radiation exposure, and is adaptable to diverse clinical settings. In the choice between ultrasound and X-ray for diagnosing distal forearm fractures in children, each modality has its merits. X-ray provides accuracy and value in well-equipped facilities, while ultrasound, being radiation-free, is effective in resource-limited areas and is essential for pediatric patients to avoid radiation exposure. Professional training and continual updates are crucial. Moreover, it underscores that alongside diagnostic imaging, comprehensive clinical assessment remains pivotal for making informed medical decisions. The choice of method should consider individual case factors and prioritize patient safety.
Keywords
Resumen
Las fracturas pediátricas, especialmente las fracturas distales del antebrazo, representan una importante preocupación médica mundial y afectan hasta el 50% de los casos de fracturas pediátricas. Esta revisión narrativa tiene como objetivo comparar modalidades de diagnóstico para determinar cuál ofrece mayor precisión, minimiza la exposición a la radiación y es adaptable a diversos entornos clínicos. A la hora de elegir entre ecografía y rayos X para diagnosticar fracturas distales del antebrazo en niños, cada modalidad tiene sus ventajas. Los rayos X proporcionan precisión y valor en instalaciones bien equipadas, mientras que el ultrasonido, al no tener radiación, es eficaz en áreas con recursos limitados y es esencial para que los pacientes pediátricos eviten la exposición a la radiación. La formación profesional y la actualización continua son cruciales. Además, subraya que, junto con el diagnóstico por imágenes, la evaluación clínica integral sigue siendo fundamental para tomar decisiones médicas informadas. La elección del método debe considerar factores de cada caso individual y priorizar la seguridad del paciente.
Palabras clave
References
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Submitted date:
02/16/2024
Reviewed date:
03/12/2024
Accepted date:
04/03/2024
Publication date:
04/07/2024
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