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Oral Presentation - 152
A novel method for monitoring clavicular fracture healing in children
Filip Jurić 1, Ana Bosak Veršić 1, Suzana Sršen Medančić 1, Damir Hasandić 1, Ivonne Žgaljardić 2
1 Department for pediatric surgery, Clinical Medical Center Rijeka, Croatia
2 Aesthetic Surgery Center dr. Žgaljardić
Introduction
Clavicle fractures are among the most common fractures in the pediatric population and are usually treated conservatively. Infrared thermography (IRT) is a non-invasive method that has shown promise in detecting fractures, particularly in children. Fracture healing is typically monitored using serial radiographs, but no studies to date have evaluated the correlation between skin temperature changes and callus formation in clavicle fractures.
Aim
To assess skin temperature differences between fractured and healthy clavicles during healing and compare these differences with callus formation as observed by ultrasound.
Materials and Methods
This prospective study included 27 children aged 4–18 years with radiographically confirmed clavicle fractures. Skin temperature was measured using infrared thermography over the fracture and contralateral healthy clavicle on days 1, 4, 8, 15, and 22 post-injury. Simultaneously, ultrasound was used to assess callus formation. Temperature differences (∆T) between sides were calculated and statistically compared with ultrasound findings.
Results
The mean patient age was 12.4 years, with a predominance of male patients. The left clavicle was affected in 70% of cases. A statistically significant correlation was found between ∆T and callus development. The highest average ∆T (0.7 °C) was recorded during the early proliferative phase (up to day 8). As fibrocartilaginous callus developed, the temperature gradually normalized, equaling the healthy side by day 22. Significant ∆T values were observed on days 4 and 8.
Conclusion
IRT can serve as a useful, non-invasive method for monitoring fracture healing in children. It correlates well with callus formation and may reduce the need for repeated radiographic imaging during follow-up.