The distal radius and surrounding soft tissues--ultrasound anatomy and ultrasound pathology in the adult and child

Abstract

The aim of the study was to evaluate the ultrasonographic anatomy of the distal forearm (i.e. distal radius and surrounding soft tissue) and the typical changes occurring during growth, in adults and children. The ultrasonographic anatomy was evaluated in 10 healthy adults aged between 20 and 60 years, and 20 healthy children aged between 2 and 18 years. Particular attention was paid to dynamic examination comparing both limbs, and isolated investigations of functional tendon. An anatomical description of the tissues of the distal forearm was possible at all ages. During growth, secondary ossification centres and the transitional osteochondral region of the growth plate need particular consideration. Both in children and adults, ultrasonography can provide valuable information in the evaluation of acute trauma, follow-up of fractures and osteosynthesis, suspected osteomyelitis and chronic disorders. In children, special attention must be paid to the development of the epiphyseal region, as reflected by ossification centre, growth plate and articular cartilage.