5 Top Tips for Rheumatology Ultrasound Assessment

By Richard Brindley, Cannock Hospital

1.      Ensure all comment preset layouts are organised to facilitate rapid and straightforward labelling of each joint.

2.      Set the sensitivity of the power Doppler to the point of being too sensitive initially, then dial it back until you are confident you are in the correct window.

3.      Ensure the Doppler box is not too small; the joint extends farther than you think and needs to include the extensor tendon.

4.      Scan across each joint fully, as small erosions and single vessel activity can be easily missed.

5.      Not all rheumatology patients have rheumatological causes for their pain. Consider common musculoskeletal issues too, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, tendon injuries, and trigger finger.