SONOGRAPHY OF INJURIES TO EXTREMITIES DUE TO BIRTH TRAUMA

With regard to injuries of the extremities caused by birth trauma, ult rasound allows simultaneous direct evaluation of the surface of osseou s elements and of cartilaginous and soft-tissue structures as well. Th us, not only fractures, but also concomitant articular fluid collectio ns, respectively haematomas and/or dislocation of an epiphysis are dem onstrated in their initial extent and in their course of healing. Addi tionally, closed repositions, for instance of a displaced epiphysis, c an be exactly monitored by ultrasound. A reduced number of roentgenogr ams as well as renunciation of other imaging modalities are the conseq uence. Own experiences in 4 patients with birth trauma to the humerus confirm the high validity of ultrasound in this area as well.