Quantitative Musculoskeletal Ultrasound

Semin Musculoskelet Radiol. 2020 Aug;24(4):367-374. doi: 10.1055/s-0040-1709720. Epub 2020 Sep 29.

Abstract

Ultrasound (US) imaging plays a crucial role in the assessment of musculoskeletal (MSK) disorders. Several quantitative tools are offered by US systems and add information to conventional US imaging. This article reviews the quantitative US imaging tools currently available in MSK radiology, specifically focusing on the evaluation of elasticity with shear-wave elastography, perfusion with contrast-enhanced US and noncontrast superb microvascular imaging, and bone and muscle mass with quantitative US methods. Some of them are well established and already of clinical value, such as elasticity and contrast-enhanced perfusion assessment in muscles and tendons. MSK radiologists should be aware of the potential of quantitative US tools and take advantage of their use in everyday practice, both for clinical and research purposes.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Contrast Media
  • Humans
  • Image Enhancement / methods
  • Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted / methods
  • Musculoskeletal Diseases / diagnostic imaging*
  • Ultrasonography / methods*

Substances

  • Contrast Media