Detection of Distal Forearm Fractures Using Bone-Enhanced 3D Ultrasound Imaging

The use of X-ray imaging to detect distal forearm fractures has been the standard of care for over 100 years. However, with changes in emergency room workflows, there exists the need to rapidly differentiate between fractures and sprains at the bedside so as to best utilize emergency room resources and quickly triage patients between different treatment options (e.g. acquisition and interpretation of X-rays leading to casting versus splinting and rapid discharge). To this end, we present a 3D ultrasound imaging method intended to be performed at the bedside that aims to produce ‘CT-like’ 3D reconstructions of boney wrist anatomy. Cadaver forearms were imaged before and after fracture and results were compared to conventional 2D X-ray images.