Utility of a Smart Device Infrared Camera in Localizing Acute Pediatric Long Bone Fractures: A Pilot Study.

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Pediatric Orthopedics
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Musculoskeletal injuries are a common reason for pediatric emergency department visits.
• Infrared thermal imaging (IRT) is a noninvasive, nonradiating technique detecting temperature variations.
• IRT holds potential for identifying musculoskeletal injuries.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of a smart device infrared camera attachment for localizing acute pediatric long bone fractures.
• Focus on patients under 5 years old.

Main Methods:

• Prospective pilot study comparing IRT images with radiographs.
• IRT images captured using an iPad with an infrared camera attachment.
• Analysis of thermal images (Hi/Lo and Span and Level) to identify the area of maximum temperature (Tmax).

Main Results:

• 31 pediatric patients were included; 24 fractures were confirmed.
• The Span and Level IRT image correctly identified injuries in 91.67% of fracture cases compared to X-rays (P < 0.0002).
• High diagnostic accuracy: sensitivity 0.92, specificity 0.86, PPV 0.96, NPV 0.75; AUC 0.89.

Conclusions:

• Smart device IRT camera attachments are feasible for pediatric fracture localization.
• Promising results suggest potential to decrease reliance on radiographs.
• This technology could be particularly beneficial in resource-limited settings.