[Possible applications of ultrasound in corticotomy-callus distraction]

Sonographic examination can yield additional information in the course of corticotomy-callus distraction. Hence, we focus on individual slices--which are different from the standardised ultrasound examination of the skeleton system--in the area of the corticotomy-callus distraction. In ultrasound examination the structure of corticalis in the field of corticotomy is scanned circularly. Depending on the point of time of the corticotomy between the structure of corticalis, the callus can be visualised sonographically. The callus distraction can be divided into three stages: I. echo-poor structure between the two ends of the corticalis, II. echo-rich structure between the two ends of the corticalis, III. area of corticalis in the area of distraction with (III a), visualised without (III b) break. The described method is an additional low-cost imaging procedure in diagnosis, for the patient free of radiation and stress, which can yield additional information during and after completed callus distraction (question of permissible emotional stress). The examination is reproducible. The x-ray-controls in the course of time are mandatory, because the sonographic examination cannot judge reliably the deviation of the axis in the area of callus distraction.