Is ultrasound really helpful in the detection of rib fractures?

Objective: To determine the usefulness of ultrasound in the detection of rib fractures.

Patients And Methods: A prospective study was performed over a 3-month period. Patients presenting with a high clinical suspicion of rib fracture(s) to the Accident and Emergency Department were referred for radiological work-up with a PA chest radiograph, an oblique rib view and a chest ultrasound.