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Fracture Healing and Imaging Evaluation

  • Musculoskeletal Imaging (J Guimaraes, Section Editor)
  • Published:
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Abstract

Purpose of Review

This article reviews current fracture healing concepts to help radiologists understand what constitutes fracture healing, image fractures most effectively, and recognize complications.

Recent Findings

Ongoing bone biology research is leading to greater understanding of fracture healing mechanisms and potential therapies. Also recent work has attempted to scientifically validate fracture healing criteria, while technological imaging advances provide better tools for evaluating fracture healing and diagnosing fracture complications.

Summary

A greater understanding of fracture healing impacts imaging and treatment strategies. Radiography remains essential in follow-up care but can be supplemented by several imaging techniques when complications arise.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, IU Health Physicians-Radiology, IU Health Methodist Hospital, Indiana University School of Medicine, 1701 N Senate Blvd, Suite MH1238A, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA

    Trenton D. Roth & Lauren M. Ladd

  2. Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, IU Health Physicians-Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine, IU Health Methodist Hospital, Indiana University School of Medicine, 1801 N. Senate Blvd, Suite 535, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA

    Laurence B. Kempton

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  1. Trenton D. Roth
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Correspondence to Trenton D. Roth.

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Conflict of interest

Trenton D. Roth reports a research grant from Siemens Medical Systems for MRI projects. Lauren M. Ladd reports a research grant from Horizon Pharma. Laurence B. Kempton declares no potential conflicts of interest.

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Roth, T.D., Ladd, L.M. & Kempton, L.B. Fracture Healing and Imaging Evaluation. Curr Radiol Rep 5, 28 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40134-017-0221-0

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