Ultraschall in der Medizin : Organ der Deutschen Gesellschaft für Ultraschall in der Medizin, [der] Österreichischen Gesellschaft für Ultraschall in der Medizin, [der] Schweizerischen Gesellschaft für Ultraschall in Medizin und Biologie
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Lesions of the thoracic skeleton can sometimes be a problem in radiological diagnosis. Aim of the study was to investigate the value of ultrasound in the diagnosis of thoracic trauma in clinical practice. ⋯ Rib fractures could be found about twice as often US than x-ray. There was no difference in the diagnosis of sternal fracture. Detection of fluids (local haematoma and pleural effusion) is better via US than by x-ray. Therapeutical consequences may follow a quick bed-side diagnosis by US in a patient who needs intensive care. Other aspects after detection of a rib fracture US apart from thoracic contusion are psychological effects for the patients (usually they can cope better with their pain), the importance in the interpretation of the duration of incapacity to work and the additional information provided by expert opinions.