Standards for musculoskeletal ultrasound

Ultrasound has become the primary diagnostic tool in traumatic, inflammatory and degenerative soft tissue conditions. It is also used to monitor the condition of joints, ligaments, cartilage and muscles. Its widespread availability as well as cases of unsatisfactory quality of equipment and the lack of appropriate training of ultrasound examiners are reasons why standards need to be set for equipment requirements, the scope of ultrasound assessment and examiner's experience. The paper discusses ultrasound criteria that are common for many specialties as well as detailed criteria for the examined regions and structures along with their description. The aim of the paper is to harmonize the protocol for ultrasound examination in all ultrasound laboratories.