Diagnostic imaging in stress fracture
Rivera, J.J.; Mason, B.E.; Anderson, P.J.
Boletin de la Asociacion Medica de Puerto Rico 74(1): 22-24
1982
ISSN/ISBN: 0004-4849 PMID: 6958268 Document Number: 701024
The diagnosis of bone fractures has traditionally been substantiated by radiographic findings. The sensivity of this diagnostic modality has been disappointing in the early detection of fractures. A clinical example is fractures of the scaphoid bone. This is even more dramatic in stress fracture where initial radiographs may be normal. Scintigraphic imaging can frequently be helpful in the early detection of fractures in difficult areas and when stress fractures are suspected. Early detection of stress fractures could prevent further damage and the subsequent need for long term immobilization. In a military institution where basic military training occurs the stress placed on the trainees during physical exercise and conditioning produces numerous complaints of pain in the lower extremities. The physician faces the dialemma of determining which patients are suffering from early stress fractures and which from functional stress. Initial radiographs are of little benefit to the physician, thus making the diagnosis even more difficult.
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