Computed arthrotomography as an adjunct to pediatric arthrography.

Computed arthrotomography was compared with conventional arthrography in ten cases and with both pluridirectional arthrotomography and conventional arthrography in five cases. Six elbows, five hips, three ankles, and one wrist were examined. Indications included pain, locking, congenital hip dislocation, posttraumatic joint deformity, and postinfectious joint deformity. Compared with conventional arthrography, computed arthrotomography provided additional information in ten of 15 (67%) cases and provided the same information in four cases. Arthrography and computed arthrotomography were complementary in one case. Compared with pluridirectional arthrotomography, computed arthrotomography provided additional information in two of five (40%) cases. In the remaining three cases, computed arthrotomography and pluridirectional arthrotomography provided equal information. In no case did pluridirectional arthrotomography provide additional information. Computed arthrotomography was useful in demonstrating loose bodies, differentiating air bubbles from loose bodies, and determining the intra- or extraarticular location of ossific densities. Computed arthrotomography appears to be a useful adjunct to arthrography in detecting loose bodies and in evaluating anatomically complex cases.