Pediatric developmental disorders of the musculoskeletal system

Abstract

In pediatric musculoskeletal disorders, a distinction is made between normal and abnormal development. X‑ray examination is the standard diagnostic procedure. Cross-sectional imaging, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), and ultrasonography (US) are increasingly used. X‑ray imaging is still the examination method of choice but can be supplemented by cross-sectional imaging depending on clinical situation. Cross-sectional imaging is helpful and necessary in many cases but significantly more time-consuming and costly than x‑ray examinations. Initially standard x‑rays should be taken, which can then be supplemented with cross-sectional imaging depending on the result and clinical question (MRI and US are preferred as there is no radiation).