[Sonographic diagnostics of proximal humerus fractures in juveniles].
OBJECTIVE
The exact determination of the extent of deformities in juvenile proximal humerus fractures is difficult with plain x-rays. The aim of this study was to find out whether proximal humerus fractures can be diagnosed and the extent of the deformity can be detected by ultrasonography.


METHODS
In a prospective, multicentre trial children aged 0-12 years with suspected proximal humerus fractures were examined. Initially a standardized sonographic evaluation was performed and the extent and the direction of the deformity were determined. The recommended treatment was noted. Afterwards standard x-rays were taken and the results of both diagnostic procedures were compared.


RESULTS
A total of 33 children were examined, 14 male and 19 female, with a mean age of 7.6 years. In the ultrasound examination 17 out of 18 proximal humerus fractures were detected. In comparison to x-ray diagnostics ultrasonography proved to have a sensitivity of 94% and a specificity of 100%. In 16 cases ultrasonography gave a better result than x-ray imaging and x-ray was better in 5 cases.


CONCLUSIONS
Ultrasonography is suitable for detection and exclusion of fractures and better than x-ray diagnosis for evaluation of the type and direction of deformations of proximal humerus fractures.
Ackermann
O
O
Klinik für Orthopädie und Unfallchirurgie, Klinikum Duisburg, Zu den Rehwiesen 9, 47055 Duisburg. ole.ackermann@gmx.de [corrected]
Sesia
S
S
Berberich
T
T
Liedgens
P
P
Eckert
K
K
Grosser
K
K
Roessler
M
M
Rülander
C
C
Vogel
T
T
D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D008297:Male; D011859:Radiography; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity; D012784:Shoulder Fractures / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D014463:Ultrasonography