Fracture detection in a combat theater: four cases comparing ultrasound to conventional radiography

J Spec Oper Med. 2010 Spring;10(2):11-15. doi: 10.55460/0AEV-MECT.

Abstract

Ultrasound (US) is rapid, non-invasive, simple, effective, and presents a viable and practical alternative to conventional radiography (CR) for the Special Forces Medical Sergeant (18D), particularly in the deployed setting. The authors present four cases that illustrate the ability of US used by the 18D to detect fractures in a combat theater. This success invites a debate as to what extent the Special Operations Forces (SOF) community should field US as it demonstrates a number of distinct advantages over the existing gold standard of portable conventional radiography.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Child, Preschool
  • Equipment Design
  • Fractures, Bone / diagnostic imaging*
  • Fractures, Bone / etiology
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Military Personnel*
  • Point-of-Care Systems*
  • Radiography
  • Ultrasonography
  • Young Adult