Abstract
In this chapter, we will focus on imaging of the pediatric upper extremity. The first third of the chapter will include a basic review of the major principles of skeletal growth (endochondral ossification, transphyseal bridge, and growth recovery lines) and various clinically available imaging modalities (radiographs, magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, ultrasound, and nuclear medicine studies). The middle third of the chapter will review disease-specific imaging approach to congenital and developmental diseases, infectious and inflammatory osteoarticular diseases, malignant and benign lesions, vascular tumors, malformations, and compression. The final third of the chapter will be subdivided based on anatomic location and highlights the imaging workup for different diseases based on age, skeletal maturation, and clinical concern. For the shoulder girdle, brachial plexus birth injury, sternoclavicular injury, and overuse injuries (Little Leaguer’s shoulder) will be reviewed. For the elbow, traumatic injuries, medial epicondylitis (thrower’s elbow), capitellar osteochondritis dissecans, and Panner’s disease will be reviewed. For the wrist and hand, traumatic injuries, overuse injuries (gymnast’s wrist), injuries to the triangular fibrocartilage complex, and ulnar collateral ligament of the thumb will be reviewed. The purpose of this chapter is to highlight pediatric-specific imaging features: the rationale behind imaging selection, the common normal variants and pitfalls to avoid, and the disease-specific imaging findings that can improve diagnostic accuracy, complement clinical assessment, and optimize treatment planning.
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Acknowledgments
The authors wish to recognize the work of previous authors Archana Malik, Jacqueline A. Urbine, Erica D. Poletto, Bret Kricun, Evan Geller, Polly Kochan, Robert L. Siegle, and Eric N. Faerber for their contributions to The Pediatric Upper Extremity and to this manuscript.
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Nguyen, J.C. (2023). Imaging of the Pediatric Upper Extremity. In: Abzug, J.M., Kozin, S., Zlotolow, D.A. (eds) The Pediatric Upper Extremity. Springer, New York, NY. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4614-8758-6_5-2
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