Ultrasound of the Month Case 37

Clinical Presentation •

33-year-old female patient with prior thumb laceration from broken glass

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Patient was seen at outside emergency room, where glass fragments were removed and the laceration was closed

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Patient presents with persistent pain and swelling

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Radiographs were negative for foreign body

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Ultrasound was requested for further evaluation

Ultrasound of the Month – Case 37

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Ultrasound of the Month – Case 37

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Ultrasound of the Month – Case 37

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• Ultrasound is an excellent examination in the evaluation of possible foreign body • Many foreign bodies not easily visible on radiographs can be reliably found with ultrasound and precise location (depth, relationship to regional structures) makes surgical removal much easier

Ultrasound of the Month – Case 37

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Ultrasound of the Month – Case 37

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Ultrasound of the Month – Case 37

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Conclusion Ultrasound should be considered as the initial imaging study in the evaluation of possible foreign body within the soft tissues, and can make subsequent foreign body removal easier and safer for the surgeon.

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