The use of ultrasonography as a diagnostic tool for superficial fascial space infections

PURPOSE: This study examined the value of ultrasonography as a diagnostic tool in the treatment of superficial acute odontogenic fascial space infections. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The study group consisted of 50 patients in whom both radiographic and sonographic examinations, as well as a needle aspiration, were performed. RESULTS: Purulent fluid was aspirated in 22 of the 50 patients. Six patients diagnosed as suffering from cellulitis had a repeated ultrasonography scan. In four, abscess formation was diagnosed on the third day. CONCLUSIONS: Ultrasonography is an effective diagnostic tool to confirm abscess formation in the superficial fascial spaces and is highly predictable in detecting the stage of infection.