Ultrasound-guided injection in osteoarticular pathologies: general principles and precautions

Area of Science:

• Musculoskeletal Imaging
• Interventional Radiology

Background:

• Historically, motor system procedures relied on blind techniques or fluoroscopy.
• Fluoroscopy involves ionizing radiation and may lack real-time precision for needle guidance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate sonography as a viable alternative for needle-guided interventions in the motor system.
• To highlight the advantages of sonography over traditional methods for musculoskeletal procedures.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing high-frequency transducers for improved visualization of musculoskeletal structures.
• Employing sterile transducer covers for safe intra-articular, tendon sheath, or bursal access.
• Direct real-time sonographic guidance for needle placement during aspiration or injection procedures.

Main Results:

• Sonography allows direct visualization of the needle tip, eliminating the need for contrast agents.
• The technique enables precise targeting of joints, tendon sheaths, and bursae, even in the presence of effusion.
• Real-time tracking of the needle path allows for avoidance of critical structures like nerves and vessels, leading to minimally invasive procedures.

Conclusions:

• Sonography is a cost-effective, radiation-free imaging modality for guiding needle interventions in the motor system.
• This technique offers enhanced safety and accuracy for procedures involving peripheral joints, tendon sheaths, and bursae.
• Advancements in sonography technology have significantly improved diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities for musculoskeletal pathologies.