Role of MRI in Acute Pediatric Musculo Skeletal Infections - Lessons Learnt From a Busy District General Hospital Orthopaedic Unit

Description

In this presentation, Monhanraj Venkatesan discusses the critical management of acute pediatric musculoskeletal infections and emphasizes the significant role of MRI in timely diagnoses. He describes pediatric musculoskeletal infections as common, highlighting the urgent need for prompt diagnosis to prevent adverse outcomes. The study aimed to review cases of musculoskeletal infections and address issues like diagnostic delays and atypical presentations. Out of 59 patients referred to their department, the majority were male, with a focus on lower limb infections. Initial clinical diagnoses were successful in 12 cases, while the other 47 required further imaging. MRI scans not only ruled out infections for 27 patients, but also helped identify unusual infection sites in 20 patients, revealing important atypical presentations like osteomyelitis at unusual sites. Venkatesan notes a tendency for delayed MRI referrals due to inadequate initial examinations, stressing that a thorough clinical history and examination are essential. He closes by supporting the findings with the BOAST guidelines, highlighting a multidisciplinary approach that incorporates quick imaging and effective communication among medical teams to improve patient outcomes.

DOI: 10.1302/3114-230144

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