EURO-MUSCULUS/USPRM Dynamic Ultrasound Protocols for Knee

Abstract

In this dynamic scanning protocol, ultrasound examination of the knee is described using various maneuvers to assess different conditions. Real-time patient examination and scanning videos are used for better simulation of the daily clinical practice. The protocol is prepared by several/international experts in the field of musculoskeletal ultrasound and within the umbrella of European Musculoskeletal Ultrasound Study Group in Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine/Ultrasound Study Group of the International Society of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine.

Hearing and Seeing Nerve/Tendon Snapping: A Systematic Review on Dynamic Ultrasound Examination

“…Additionally, patients affected by snapping/popping phenomena are more susceptible to developing chronic pain and limited joint movement . The majority of the literature reviewed in this study highlighted the role of US examination to unravel difficulties in diagnosing and unveiling the exact biomechanical alterations associated with snapping/popping due to ambiguous symptoms and signs [1][2][3][4][5]. In this regard, performing a simple US examination following an inconclusive physical examination can undoubtedly be contributory .…”

“…To date, the concept of dynamic US imaging has been widely accepted [ 2 , 3 , 4 ]. However, several of the dynamic US assessments obtained can contribute to the exact diagnosis and monitoring of the snapping condition if they are properly interpreted in a clinical/surgical/rehabilitative context.…”

“…Apart from causing curiosity, the clinical scenario can often be accompanied by discomfort or pain, limiting daily professional/sporting activities [ 1 ]. Snapping is usually audible and palpable, but rarely visible; therefore, imaging and detecting the actual/responsible structure is crucial, but difficult as well [ 2 , 3 , 4 ]. Although radiographs, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are used for assessing several anatomic structures in this aspect, ultrasound (US) examination appears to be superior and able to contribute more [ 3 , 4 ].…”

“…Although radiographs, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are used for assessing several anatomic structures in this aspect, ultrasound (US) examination appears to be superior and able to contribute more [ 3 , 4 ]. Apart from its high resolution as regards nerve/tendon imaging, the dynamic evaluation of the structures in a patient- and physician-friendly approach is paramount for better understanding ‘snapping’ [ 2 , 3 , 4 ]. US examination provides a precise (real-time) correlation between the symptoms and the movement of the suspected structure [ 1 , 5 , 6 ].…”

“…Depending on the suspected nerve/tendon, snapping can be triggered/tested during any position, also conveniently reassuring the patient [ 5 ]. Prompt dynamic US examination requires excellent knowledge on US physics, and consequently regarding various artifacts and interactions with different tissues, for better interpretation of the US images/videos [ 2 , 3 , 4 ].…”