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Ultrasound-guided retrieval of small foreign objects in subcutaneous tissue
J Turner1, C H Wilde, K C Hughes
1Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Milton S Hershey Medical Center, Pennsylvania State University, Hershey, USA.
Annals of Emergency Medicine
|June 1, 1997
Summary
Ultrasonography effectively locates nonradiopaque foreign objects in subcutaneous tissue. Wood and plastic create the strongest acoustic shadows, aiding in their identification and removal.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging
- Diagnostic Ultrasound
- Foreign Body Localization
Background:
- Superficial foreign bodies can be challenging to locate using conventional radiography.
- Nonradiopaque materials pose a particular diagnostic dilemma.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the physical properties of materials most easily detected in subcutaneous tissue using ultrasound.
- To evaluate the efficacy of ultrasound for localizing nonradiopaque foreign objects.
Main Methods:
- High-resolution real-time sonography was performed on chicken breast models containing various foreign objects (metal, wood, plastic, glass, needle).
- Different transducer frequencies (3.5-7.5 MHz) and scanning formats were utilized.
- Radiography was used for comparative analysis.
Main Results:
- Wood produced the strongest acoustic shadow, followed by plastic.
- Higher frequency transducers (7.5 MHz) offered better resolution at shallow depths.
- Lower frequency transducers (5 MHz) were optimal for deeper structures.
Conclusions:
- Ultrasonography is highly effective for locating and retrieving nonradiopaque foreign objects in superficial subcutaneous tissue.
- Ultrasound should be considered when conventional radiography is insufficient for nonradiopaque foreign body removal.