BET 1: Can Salter-Harris type I fractures be diagnosed by ultrasound?

Emerg Med J. 2018 May;35(5):335-336. doi: 10.1136/emermed-2018-207686.1.

Abstract

A short-cut review was carried out to establish the diagnostic accuracy of ultrasound for Salter-Harris type 1 fractures. Three studies were directly relevant to the question. The author, date and country of publication, patient group studied, study type, relevant outcomes, results and study weaknesses of these papers are tabulated. The clinical bottom line is that ultrasound may allow visualisation of Salter-Harris type 1 fractures. However, little is known as to its sensitivity and specificity, and therefore it cannot be used to eliminate the diagnosis.

Keywords: clinical; ultrasound.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Salter-Harris Fractures / diagnosis*
  • Sensitivity and Specificity
  • Ultrasonography / methods
  • Ultrasonography / standards*