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La radiologia medica· 2026Q1· Review

Musculoskeletal ultrasound in traumatic emergencies: what radiologists need to know

Pietro Andrea Bonaffini, Lorenzo Spotorno, Marco Porta, Clarissa Valle et al.

Short summary

Musculoskeletal ultrasound (MSK US) offers a rapid, dynamic, and noninvasive alternative to radiography and CT for assessing acute MSK pathologies in emergency settings, identifying conditions like unstable fractures, hematomas, joint effusions, and tendon ruptures.

AI-generated from the title and abstract; the full text is not read.

Key points

  • MSK US provides a rapid, dynamic, and noninvasive method for assessing acute MSK pathologies in emergency settings.
  • Prompt identification of conditions like unstable fractures, hematomas, joint effusions, and tendon ruptures is crucial for mitigating long-term morbidity.
  • The review covers practical scanning techniques and key sonographic signs relevant to emergency MSK assessment.
  • Diagnostic pitfalls and escalation pathways are discussed to optimize clinical decision-making and patient management.

AI-generated from the title and abstract; the full text is not read.

Abstract

Abstract While conventional radiography (CR) and computed tomography (CT) remain diagnostic staples in emergency settings, ultrasound (US) is a critical tool offering a rapid, dynamic, and noninvasive alternative for acute musculoskeletal (MSK) pathologies assessment. Prompt identification of conditions such as unstable fractures, soft tissue or muscular hematomas, joint effusions, and tendon ruptures is essential to prevent or mitigate long-term patient morbidity. This review summarizes the role of US in the emergency department, providing a practical overview of targeted scanning techniques and key sonographic signs. Additionally, common diagnostic pitfalls and effective escalation pathways are discussed to streamline clinical decision-making and optimize timely patient management.

The authors' abstract, as published at the source. La radiologia medica, 2026 · DOI ↗

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Field: Critical Care and Intensive Care Medicine

Critical Care and Intensive Care MedicineMedicine