Preliminary Diagnosis: Hematoma

I. What imaging technique is first-line for this diagnosis

  • The first-line imaging modality is a sonographic evaluation of the area of concern.

II. Describe the advantages and disadvantages of this technique for diagnosis of a hematoma.

  • Sonographic imaging is a relatively inexpensive and portable imaging modality.

  • Sonographic imaging does not expose patients to ionizing radiation.

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  • Sonographic imaging may help guide percutaneous intervention.

  • Sonographic imaging may help detect any vascularity adjacent to the hematoma or localize any focal area of active extravasation.

  • Sonographic imaging may help localize a pseudoaneurysm in close approximation to the hematoma.

  • Sonographic is less adept in characterizing the surrounding soft tissues and osseous structures compared to CT imaging.

III. What are the contraindications for the first-line imaging technique?

  • No specific contraindications to sonographic imaging exist.

IV. What alternative imaging techniques are available?

  • Alternative imaging technique is a CT of the area of interest.

V. Describe the advantages and disadvantages of the alternative techniques for diagnosis of a hematoma.

  • CT is a more sensitive and specific imaging modality in evaluating and characterizing a hematoma.

  • CT imaging offers more exquisite detail of the surrounding soft tissues and osseous structures.

  • CT imaging may better characterize the extent and source of hematoma.

  • CT imaging may help guide percutaneous intervention.

  • CT is a less portable imaging modality compared to sonographic imaging.

  • CT imaging exposes patients to ionizing radiation.

VI. What are the contraindications for the alternative imaging techniques?

CT imaging may be contraindicated in pregnant patients.

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