Application of Ultrasonographic Evaluation in Conservative Treatment for Femoral Fracture During Cesarean Section: A Case Report.

Abstract

The incidence of neonatal femoral fractures during delivery is extremely rare, and cesarean section further decreases this risk. These fractures usually have favorable prognoses due to strong callus formation and natural remodeling. However, no standardized treatment protocol exists. Conservative management with the Pavlik harness has yielded positive results. Although plain radiography is typically used to monitor healing, neonates are susceptible to radiation exposure. Ultrasonography has been suggested as a radiation-free alternative for evaluating callus formation. This study presents a case of a neonatal femoral fracture treated conservatively with the Pavlik harness, monitored with plain radiography and ultrasonography. In this case, ultrasonography was able to visualize callus formation and deformity correction in a manner similar to radiography. This indicates the potential for ultrasonography to contribute to reduce the need for repeated radiographs and may thereby reduce radiation exposure in neonates.