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.