Sonographic evaluation of bone fractures: a reliable alternative in clinical practice?

ObjectiveThe objective was to compare the diagnostic accuracy of conventional radiography and ultrasonography (US) for the diagnosis of suspected bone fractures.MethodEighty-six patients were assessed using conventional radiography and US on the affected bone district.ResultsRadiographic and sonographic findings were concordant in 93% of cases. In one case, US suggested a fracture not seen on radiographic assessment. Ultrasonography showed a sensitivity of 0.94 and a specificity of 0.92.ConclusionIn clinical practice, US could become the first diagnostic approach.