Ultrasound-aided diagnosis of septic arthritis of the elbow in the emergency department

Journal of Ultrasound
Pablo BlancoMichael Blaivas

Abstract

Septic arthritis (SA) is an emergency orthopedic condition that carries significant patient morbidity and mortality. Clinical data and blood test analyses are fairly unreliable in making the diagnosis and, therefore, utilizing a feasible and reliable diagnostic tool is desirable, particularly in emergency settings where rapid diagnosis is pivotal. Here, we report the case of a 58-year-old male presenting to the emergency department with a swollen elbow. After demonstration of a large articular effusion with point-of-care ultrasound, the synovial fluid analysis was compatible with SA. The patient was treated with elbow arthrotomy and systemic antibiotics and discharged shortly thereafter, uneventfully. Finally, we discuss the impact of ultrasound in diagnosing SA and the many advantages that make it the first-line tool in urgent care.

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Citations

Jul 29, 2021·Journal of Ultrasound in Medicine : Official Journal of the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine·Eric ScheierUri Balla

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