Three-dimensional (3D) contrast-enhanced power Doppler imaging in Legg-Calve-Perthes disease

Background. The revascularization process of the femoral head in Legg-Calve -Perthes disease has not been well studied on Doppler images. We incorporat ed two relatively new developments in ultrasound: 3D power Doppler imaging combined with the use of contrast agents. Patients and methods. We studied two children with unilateral Legg-Calve-Pe rthes disease through anterior-sagittal approaches with pre- and post-contr ast power Doppler images, acquired in 2D and 3D planes. Results. In one patient, intraosseous vessels were detected only in the pat hological femoral head both pre- and post-contrast administration. In the o ther, no flow was identifiable without the use of contrasts. Conclusion. The use of ultrasound contrast agents combined with 3D imaging modalities offers new alternative methods for visualization of intraosseous vascularity.