Usefulness of ultra-sonogram to diagnose non radio opaque foreign bodies and their removal under ultrasound guidance

Abstract

The foreign bodies like wood, thorn, glass pieces cannot be seen in x rays. If it is small it is difficult to remove. So, blind exploration is more hazardous for patients. Retained FB in the extremities can produce pain and painful restriction of movement. Radiolucent foreign bodies of the musculoskeletal system can be seen by ultrasound so it has become the optimal imaging modality for detecting radiolucent FB. Ultrasound-guided percutaneous removal of FBs is a safe and viable approach to the management of FBs achieving at least 88% success overall. Extraction of ultrasound-guided FB is a good alternative to conventional surgery as it does not require general anesthesia, it is safe, inexpensive, less time consuming and with low complication rates.