CONTRAST-ENHANCED ULTRASOUND IN PEDIATRIC ABDOMINAL TRAUMA

Abstract Introduction Evaluation of the use contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) in patients with abdominal trauma. Methods Retrospective study grade III or higher trauma, according to American Association Surgical (AAST) severity scale. All underwent an initial CT scan, mode B before discharge and a second-generation one month after trauma (contrast dose=0.03 ml/kg). Results From January 2017 December 2021, total 36 (2–15 years) were collected. 18 hepatic, 8 splenic, renal 2 pancreatic traumas. Of these, required urgent embolization due active bleeding pseudoaneurysm 1 patient surgical intervention. CEUS at showed: complete resolution 22 patients, residual hematomas, urinoma devascularized area, 3 pseudoaneurysms, 7 persistence lacerations resolved weeks cysts. Conclusions allows evaluation parenchymal injuries organs, as well presence bleeding, urinomas and/or areas, therefore, it can be useful tool for follow-up monitoring The absence irradiation its great accessibility allow repeated often desired; confirmation enables earlier return daily life.