Ultrasonographic examinations of muscle hematomas in hemophiliacs.

Twenty-one ultrasonographic examinations were performed in 14 hemophiliacs with suspected intramuscular bleeding. In all patients who had an ultrasonographic examination within the first days after the onset of the symptoms, a hematoma was identified, and its resolution during transfusion therapy was possible to follow. In patients who had their first examination 3 to 5 weeks after the onset of symptoms and who had received transfusion therapy during this period, no hematoma was detectable. It is concluded that ultrasonography provides all necessary information needed for diagnosis and follow-up of treatment. Being a safe method, and giving no radiation, it should be the method of choice in the evaluation and follow-up of muscle hematomas in this patient group.