Ultrasonography of the bone surface in children: normal and pathological findings in the bone cortex and periosteum

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Radiology
• Musculoskeletal Imaging
• Ultrasound Diagnostics

Background:

• Ultrasound (US) is a key imaging modality in pediatric musculoskeletal (MSK) pathology.
• While soft tissues, joints, and cartilage are commonly evaluated, bone surface abnormalities are also crucial for diagnosis.
• Understanding normal and abnormal bone US findings is essential for comprehensive pediatric MSK assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To illustrate the normal ultrasound (US) appearance of the cortical bone surface and periosteum in children.
• To detail common US anomalies of the bone surface associated with pediatric infections, trauma, and bone tumors.

Main Methods:

• Review of normal pediatric bone surface and periosteum ultrasound (US) findings.
• Illustration of common US abnormalities in pediatric bone pathology, including infections, trauma, and tumors.
• Focus on practical aspects for examiners evaluating pediatric bone surface abnormalities.

Main Results:

• Detailed description of normal cortical bone surface and periosteal US characteristics.
• Presentation of characteristic US findings for pediatric bone infections (e.g., osteomyelitis).
• Demonstration of US features of traumatic bone injuries and pediatric bone tumors.

Conclusions:

• Ultrasound (US) is valuable for evaluating pediatric bone surface pathology beyond soft tissues.
• Familiarity with normal and abnormal bone US findings aids in diagnosing pediatric MSK conditions.
• This article provides a guide to recognizing key US bone surface anomalies in children.