[Ultrasound guided interventional radiology]

Ultrasound is a valuable imaging technique for musculoskeletal pathology. It is increasingly used for image-guided procedures such as aspiration of superficial or deep collections, injection of drugs, or biopsies. Ultrasound guidance is an interesting alternative to procedures performed either blindly or under fluoroscopic or CT guidance. Advantages of US-guided procedures include the absence of ionizing radiation, real-time monitoring during needle placement, decreased risk of injury to neighboring structures (namely vessels and nerves), real time confirmation of procedure success (injection, drainage, biopsy). Minor inconveniences relate to the proper conditions for performance of ultrasound. Complications are rare and can be avoided by using proper sterile technique and evaluate for potential contra-indications to the procedure. As with any other image guided procedure, informed consent is required.