Three-dimensional (3D) contrast-enhanced power Doppler imaging in Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The revascularization process of the femoral head in Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease has not been well studied on Doppler images. We incorporated two relatively new developments in ultrasound 3D power Doppler imaging combined with the use of contrast agents. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We studied two children with unilateral Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease through anterior-sagittal approaches with pre- and post-contrast power Doppler images, acquired in 2D and 3D planes. RESULTS: In one patient, intraosseous vessels were detected only in the pathological femoral head both pre- and post-contrast administration. In the other, no flow was identifiable without the use of contrasts. CONCLUSION: The use of ultrasound contrast agents combined with 3D imaging modalities offers new alternative methods for visualization of intraosseous vascularity.