Sonography of Morel-Lavallée Lesions

Abstract

All fluid collections (21/21) were located between the deep fat and fascia, with a shape that was fusiform in 12 (60%) of 20, flat in 5 (25%), and lobular in 3 (15%) (shape not determined in 1 case). Regarding echogenicity, 15 (71%) of the 21 collections were hypoechoic, and 6 (29%) were anechoic; 13 (62%) were heterogeneous, and 8 (38%) were homogeneous. The lobular fluid collections were all less than 2 weeks of age, and the flat fluid collections were all greater than 6 months of age. All homogeneous fluid collections were greater than 8 months of age. There was no relationship between the age of a fluid collection and its echogenicity. Conclusions. Morel-Lavallée lesions had a variable appearance, being more homogeneous and flat or fusiform in shape with a well-defined margin as the lesions aged. All Morel-Lavallée lesions were hypoechoic or anechoic, compressible, and located between the deep fat and overlying fascia.

Morel-Lavallee Lesion: A Forgotten Cause of Bleeding in Trauma

“…As the lesions aged, they became more homogenous and flat or fusiform in shape with well-defined margin. All MLL were hypoechoic or anechoic, compressible, and located between deep fat and overlying fascia (Neal et al 2008).…”

Management of Post-Traumatic Complications by Interventional Ultrasound: a Review

“…The shape of MLL varies from lobular, to fusiform and flat, located between the fascia and hypodermis [69]. Deformability under probe graduate compression is a specific US finding.…”

“…Ultrasound assessment can be very useful showing an anechoic or hypoechoic cavity containing fluid with hyperechoic nodules representing fat remnants [69].…”

Morel-Lavallee Lesion of the Lower Back Mimicking an Abscess: A Case Report

“…Lesions under 6 months will be complex cysts filled with debris and blood products. Older lesions become clear cystic spaces, with a discernable capsule [8]. Ultrasound can locate and determine the extent of the lesion.…”