Ultrasonography for Hand and Wrist Conditions

J Am Acad Orthop Surg. 2016 Aug;24(8):544-54. doi: 10.5435/JAAOS-D-15-00170.

Abstract

Ultrasonography facilitates dynamic, real-time evaluation of bones, joints, tendons, nerves, and vessels, making it an ideal imaging modality for hand and wrist conditions. Ultrasonography can depict masses and fluid collections, help locate radiolucent foreign bodies, characterize traumatic or overuse tendon or ligament pathology, and help evaluate compressive peripheral neuropathy and microvascular blood flow. Additionally, this modality improves the accuracy of therapeutic intra-articular or peritendinous injections and facilitates aspiration of fluid collections, such as ganglia.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cysts / diagnostic imaging
  • Foreign Bodies / diagnostic imaging
  • Hand / diagnostic imaging*
  • Hand Joints / diagnostic imaging
  • Humans
  • Ligaments, Articular / diagnostic imaging
  • Peripheral Nerves / diagnostic imaging
  • Tendons / diagnostic imaging
  • Ultrasonography* / methods
  • Wrist / diagnostic imaging*
  • Wrist Joint / diagnostic imaging