Portable ultrasound devices could provide an alternative to x-ray machines for diagnosing forearm fractures in children, which could alleviate waiting times for families in hospital emergency departments (ED).
Griffith University researchers Professor Robert Ware and Senior Lecturer Peter Snelling compared functional outcomes in children given an ultrasound and those who received an x-ray on a suspected distal forearm fracture. Dr Snelling said the ultrasounds were performed by nurses, physiotherapists and emergency physicians at four south-east Queensland hospitals.
“They treated 270 children, aged between five and 15 years, during the randomised trial, which included a check-up 28 days later and another check-in at eight weeks,” Dr Snelling said. “The findings show the majority of children had similar recoveries and returned to full physical function.”
Less than one-third of children who were given an ultrasound needed a follow-up x-ray and care at an orthopaedic clinic. Those who didn’t have a buckle fracture or fractured arm were discharged from hospital without the need for further imaging.
Professor Ware said children who had an ultrasound initially had fewer x-rays, and shorter stays in the ED. “Families were also more satisfied with the treatment they received,” he said. “The results are promising and have wider implications beyond in hospital diagnosis and follow up care.
“By using a bedside ultrasound, this frees up the x-ray machine for patients who really need it and can potentially be a cost-cutting measure for hospitals as they reduce the number of x-rays without comprising the safety of patients.
“It also would be extremely beneficial in rural or remote areas eliminating the need for children and their families to travel to a larger hospital for an x-ray.”
Source: Griffith University
