[Skull injury in childhood: comparison of ultrasonography with conventional X-rays and computerized tomography].

PURPOSE: The purpose of our study was to compare the value of ultrasound, conventional x-ray diagnosis and CT in detecting skull fractures and intracranial haemorrhage in children suffering from a head injury.

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

We examined 210 children who had a head injury. In all cases the calvarium was investigated by ultrasound using a 7.0 MHz linear transducer. In children with an open fontanel (n = 190) the cerebrum was screened additionally by ultrasound following a standard protocol. The sonographic findings were correlated to the x-ray examination (n = 21) and CT (n = 13).

RESULTS

Ultrasound enabled diagnosis of linear calvarial fractures (n = 29), depressed fractures (n = 6) and intracranial haemorrhage (n = 8). X-Ray and CT examination confirmed the diagnosis of linear calvarial fractures in 16 cases, of depressed fractures in 6 cases. CT confirmed the sonographic diagnosis of intracranial haemorrhage in 8 cases.

CONCLUSION

Ultrasound as a primary method can replace the conventional x-ray in detecting calvarial fracture and posttraumatic sequelae. Additional CT examination depends on the sonographic and neurological status.