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Point-of-Care Ultrasound Diagnosis of Proximal Hamstring Rupture
Rachel R Bengtzen1, O John Ma2, Andrea Herzka3
1Department of Emergency Medicine, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon; Department of Family Medicine (Sports), Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon.
The Journal of Emergency Medicine
|December 23, 2017
Summary
Acute proximal hamstring ruptures are often misdiagnosed, delaying critical surgical repair. Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) can expedite diagnosis, improving patient outcomes for this serious injury.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Emergency Medicine
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Acute proximal hamstring ruptures present diagnostic challenges in emergency settings.
- Delayed diagnosis leads to conservative treatment, technical difficulties, and increased risks during surgical repair.
- Misdiagnosis as hamstring strains is common, with diagnosis often occurring months post-injury.
Observation:
- A case series highlights diagnostic delays in emergency and primary care.
- Physical examination findings in the acute setting are often limited by pain.
- Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) can facilitate expedited diagnosis.
Findings:
- Timely diagnosis of hamstring rupture is crucial for optimal patient outcomes.
- Surgical repair within 3-6 weeks yields the best results.
- POCUS can significantly aid in the early diagnosis of proximal hamstring rupture.
Implications:
- Emergency physicians should be aware of POCUS utility for diagnosing hamstring injuries.
- Early diagnosis and treatment improve outcomes for proximal hamstring ruptures.
- POCUS can guide timely surgical intervention, reducing morbidity.
