Ultrasound-guided procedures in rheumatology. What is the evidence?

J Clin Rheumatol. 2015 Jun;21(4):201-10. doi: 10.1097/RHU.0000000000000242.

Abstract

Ultrasound (US) is a cost-effective, noninvasive, and accessible imaging modality that clinicians use at the point of care to assess disease activity and therapeutic efficacy in different rheumatic conditions. It can play a relevant role in invasive procedures performed by the rheumatologist, potentially ensuring a higher degree of accuracy. However, US-guided injections are still underused, and the conventional blind injection the most commonly adopted approach. In this article, we analyze the current evidence supporting the use of US-guided procedures, emphasizing comparative studies between conventional and US-guided procedures and their benefits in the daily rheumatological practice.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Rheumatic Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Rheumatic Diseases / therapy*
  • Ultrasonography, Interventional*