Role of Ultrasound in Management of Acute Osteomyelitis in Pediatric Patients

Abstract

cute osteomyelitis is an emergency that requires prompt diagnosis and early initiation of treatment. Since the clinical symptoms of osteomyelitis are usually non-specific, a multi-disciplinary approach is usually required to reach the final diagnosis. US offers a valuable imaging modality given its widespread availability and low cost. Moreover, ultrasound can be performed at bedside, and poses minimal risk to the patients. US can detect early changes in osteomyelitis as soft tissue swelling and subperiosteal collection, as well as guide aspiration of the collection to determine its nature. Color Doppler images also aids in diagnosis by detecting increased vascularity of the surrounding soft tissue. US is exceptionally superior in children due to loose adherence of the periosteum to the underlying cortex. The aim of our study was to demonstrate the role of US in early detection of acute osteomyelitis in pediatric patients, as well as highlight its importance in guiding the clinicians for the most appropriate treatment plan for each patient. Conclusion: