Ultrasound: Joint
Background
- U/S can demonstrate joint effusions and aid in diagnostic procedures
- Common joints that are amenable to ultrasound includes glenohumoral, elbow, wrist, hip, knee, and ankle joint
- Shoulder dislocations can be found with SN and SP nearing 100% in both diagnosis and assessing reduction[1]
Joint Effusion
Images
Normal
Abnormal
Instructions
- Select linear probe (high frequency probe)
- Scan joint longitudinally to identify the joint space and adjacent bones
- Rotate 90° over area of concern
Findings
- Positive
- Substantial quantity of anechoic fluid (in comparison to contralateral side)
- Negative
- Trace or no effusion
Pearls and Pitfalls
- Compare contralateral joint
- Pediatric patients can have substantial effusions in both hips that is not pathologic
Shoulder Dislocation
Images
Normal
Abnormal
Instructions
Posterior Approach
- Select curvilinear probe (low frequency probe)
- Place probe to the posterior chest parallel above the scapular spine
- Identify the glenoid and humeral head
Anterior Approach
- Select curvilinear probe (low frequency probe)
- Place probe to the anterior chest parallel to the glenohumeral joint
- Identify the glenoid and humeral head
Findings
Pearls and Pitfalls
See Also
External Links
References
- ↑ Abbasi, S, et al. Diagnostic Accuracy of Ultrasonographic Examination in the Management of Shoulder Dislocation in the Emergency Department. Annals of Emergency Medicine. 2013; 62(2):170–175.