Role of diagnostic ultrasound in the assessment of musculoskeletal diseases

Scratch Collapse Test for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Background:

Despite the fact that carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is the most common entrapment neuropathy, the diagnostic accuracy of clinical screening examinations for CTS is controversial. The scratch collapse test (SCT) is a novel test that may be of diagnostic advantage. The purpose of our study was to determine the diagnostic accuracy of the SCT for CTS.

Methods:

A literature search was performed using PubMed (1966 to April 2018); Ovid MEDLINE (1966 to April 2018); EMBASE (1988 to April 2018); and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (The Cochrane Library, to April 2018). We examined the studies for the pooled sensitivity, specificity, and likelihood ratios of the SCT. This review has been registered with PROSPERO (CRD42018077115).

Results:

The literature search generated 13 unique articles. Seven articles were included for full text screening and 3 articles met our inclusion criteria, all of which were level II evidence with low risk of bias (165 patients). Pooled sensitivities, specificities, positive likelihood ratio, and negative likelihood ratios were 0.32 [95% CI (0.24–0.41)], 0.62 [95% CI (0.45–0.78)], 0.75 [95% CI (0.33–1.67)], and 1.03 [95% CI (0.61–1.74)], respectively. The calculated area under the summary receiver operating characteristic (AUSROC) curve was 0.25, indicating a low diagnostic accuracy.

Conclusion:

The SCT has poor sensitivity; however, it is moderately specific. Based on the current literature and their variable quality of the evidence, we conclude that the SCT is not an adequate screening test for detecting CTS.

Diagnosis of isolated extensor carpi radialis longus (ECRL) tendon avulsion fracture using ultrasound: a paradigm shift

Isolated avulsion fracture of the extensor carpi radialis longus (ECRL) tendon is a rare and poorly understood injury. We present a unique case of a 45-year-old male who fell on his flexed right hand. He presented with a subtle but extremely painful mass on the dorsum of his wrist. Ultrasound (U/S) imaging of the mass revealed an avulsed bone fragment attached to the ECRL tendon, confirming the clinical suspicion of an ECRL avulsion injury. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging are well-documented imaging modalities to detect tendon avulsions. As demonstrated by this case report, U/S is an excellent diagnostic tool for ECRL rupture, a cost-effective alternative that provides real-time dynamic examination of hand injuries. To our knowledge, this is the first case of ECRL avulsion diagnosed by U/S. The purpose of this case report is to educate the reader on detection and diagnosis of ECRL tendon avulsion using U/S, a time-efficient and cost-effective imaging modality that is infrequently used for this purpose.

Gonococcal Tenosynovitis Diagnosed with the Aid of Emergency Department Bedside Ultrasound

BACKGROUND

Gonorrhea is the second most common sexually transmitted infection. Disseminated gonococcal infection (DGI) consists of gonococcal infection plus one or more of the triad of arthritis, tenosynovitis, and dermatitis. Diagnosis in the emergency department (ED) must be suspected clinically, as confirmatory tests are often not available. Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) can aid in diagnosis and appropriate management by identifying tenosynovitis and excluding arthritis.

CASE REPORT

A 26-year-old man with multiple recent sex partners presented to the ED with slowly progressing right wrist pain and swelling over 5 days. His dorsal right wrist was swollen, with slightly decreased range of motion owing to mild pain, and no warmth, tenderness, erythema, or drainage. Multiple hemorrhagic, gray-purple blisters were noted over both hands. Serum white blood cell count was 12 × 10³/μL; C-reactive protein was 30.3 mg/L. POCUS of the dorsal right wrist found no joint effusion; the extensor tendon sheath contained a large anechoic space with clear separation of the extensor tendons, suggesting a tendon sheath effusion/tenosynovitis. DGI was suspected, without septic arthritis. The patient was admitted and treated with ceftriaxone and azithromycin. Gonococcus grew from blood cultures and pharyngeal swabs. WHY SHOULD AN EMERGENCY PHYSICIAN BE AWARE OF THIS?: DGI must be suspected clinically, as confirmatory tests are often not available in the ED. Not all patients present with arthritis, tenosynovitis, and dermatitis. It is often difficult to differentiate tenosynovitis from arthritis. POCUS can aid in diagnosis by identifying tenosynovitis (vs. arthritis or simple soft-tissue swelling), allowing timely appropriate DGI diagnosis and management, and, importantly, averting unnecessary arthrocentesis.

Structure and Distribution of an Unrecognized Interstitium in Human Tissues

Confocal laser endomicroscopy (pCLE) provides real-time histologic imaging of human tissues at a depth of 60-70 μm during endoscopy. pCLE of the extrahepatic bile duct after fluorescein injection demonstrated a reticular pattern within fluorescein-filled sinuses that had no known anatomical correlate. Freezing biopsy tissue before fixation preserved the anatomy of this structure, demonstrating that it is part of the submucosa and a previously unappreciated fluid-filled interstitial space, draining to lymph nodes and supported by a complex network of thick collagen bundles. These bundles are intermittently lined on one side by fibroblast-like cells that stain with endothelial markers and vimentin, although there is a highly unusual and extensive unlined interface between the matrix proteins of the bundles and the surrounding fluid. We observed similar structures in numerous tissues that are subject to intermittent or rhythmic compression, including the submucosae of the entire gastrointestinal tract and urinary bladder, the dermis, the peri-bronchial and peri-arterial soft tissues, and fascia. These anatomic structures may be important in cancer metastasis, edema, fibrosis, and mechanical functioning of many or all tissues and organs. In sum, we describe the anatomy and histology of a previously unrecognized, though widespread, macroscopic, fluid-filled space within and between tissues, a novel expansion and specification of the concept of the human interstitium.

The role of ultrasound as a problem-solving tool in the assessment of paediatric musculoskeletal injuries

Musculoskeletal trauma in the paediatric population covers a wide range of injuries; although many overlap with their adult counterparts, others are exclusive to the immature skeletal system. Ultrasound is a versatile tool particularly suited to both the imaging of children and the dynamic assessment of musculoskeletal injuries. This pictorial review aims to discuss a range of injuries, focusing on those commonly encountered in children. We shall describe the muscle-tendon-bone complex and changes that occur with increasing skeletal maturity and how this affects the type of injury encountered.

Targeting lymphatic function as a novel therapeutic intervention for rheumatoid arthritis

Although clinical outcomes for patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have greatly improved with the use of biologic and conventional DMARDs, approximately 40% of patients do not achieve primary clinical outcomes in randomized trials, and only a small proportion achieve lasting remission. Over the past decade, studies in murine models point to the critical role of the lymphatic system in the pathogenesis and therapy of inflammatory-erosive arthritis, presumably by the removal of catabolic factors, cytokines and inflammatory cells from the inflamed synovium. Murine studies demonstrate that lymphatic drainage increases at the onset of inflammatory-erosive arthritis but, as inflammation progresses to a more chronic phase, lymphatic clearance declines and both structural and cellular changes are observed in the draining lymph node. Specifically, chronic damage to the lymphatic vessel from persistent inflammation results in loss of lymphatic vessel contraction followed by lymph node collapse, reduced lymphatic drainage, and ultimately severe synovitis and joint erosion. Notably, clinical pilot studies in patients with RA report lymph node changes following treatment, and thus draining lymphatic vessels and nodes could represent a potential biomarker of arthritis activity and response to therapy. Most importantly, targeting lymphatics represents an innovative strategy for therapeutic intervention for RA.

Enthesitis: A hallmark of psoriatic arthritis

OBJECTIVE

To describe the growing importance of enthesitis in patients with psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of clinical and imaging methods currently used to assess enthesitis.

METHODS

PubMed literature searches were conducted using the terms psoriatic arthritis, entheses, enthesitis, pathology, imaging, ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging, clinical, and indices. Articles were deemed relevant if they provided insight into the pathology, monitoring, and/or diagnosis of enthesitis in PsA, or if they discussed clinical or imaging indices used to assess enthesitis.

RESULTS

Enthesitis is an early manifestation of PsA that is associated with increased disease activity and reduced quality of life. A variety of clinical indices exist to assess enthesitis in PsA; however, the Leeds Enthesitis Index and Maastricht Ankylosing Spondylitis Enthesitis Score index have been the most frequently used indices in recent clinical trials. Limitations of these indices include an inability to discern structural involvement, risk of missing subclinical enthesitis, and lack of sensitivity in detecting enthesitis, especially in patients with central sensitization and/or pain amplification. Such limitations have led to the emergent importance of imaging techniques in the assessment of enthesitis. Although there have been recent advances in magnetic resonance imaging, ultrasound (US) appears to be the preferred method for detecting enthesitis because it allows for accurate assessment of the soft-tissue components of entheses and also for new bone formation. Hypoechogenicity, increased thickness of tendon insertion, calcifications, enthesophytes, erosions, and Doppler activity have been identified as important US characteristics of enthesitis.

CONCLUSION

Enthesitis is thought to be integrally involved in the pathogenesis of PsA and is associated with worse prognostic outcomes in patients with PsA. A validated US index with entheses that are less confounded by mechanical factors and obesity would be the most effective measure of enthesitis in PsA. As imaging techniques continue to advance, our understanding of enthesitis and its involvement in PsA will also improve.

The role of ultrasonography in the diagnosis of occult scaphoid fractures

Background: Ultrasonography is widely utilized by emergency physicians and radiologists to diagnose various orthopaedic diseases, including fractures. We aim to derive a definitive estimate of the diagnostic accuracy of ultrasonography in clinically suspected scaphoid fractures. Methods: We undertook a systematic review and meta-analysis of included diagnostic cohort studies that discussed the use of ultrasonography in the diagnosis of occult scaphoid fractures. We searched the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence database using the Healthcare Databases Advanced Search tool. In addition, we utilized the PubMed database to search the Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online, Excerpta Medica database, Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health and Allied and Complimentary Medicine databases. Studies were included if they discuss the role of ultrasound imaging in the diagnosis of scaphoid fractures based on cortical interruption, radio-carpal effusion and scapho-trapezium-trapezoid effusion. Quality assessment was performed using the methodological index for non-randomized studies scoring system. Results: 6 non-randomized control studies met the inclusion criteria. Collectively, these included 236 patients with a mean age ranging from 18 to 41.2 years. The quality of these articles ranged between moderate and high based on the methodological index for non-randomized studies score. The mean sensitivity was 88.95% (standard deviation 10.03) and mean specificity was 89.50% (standard deviation 12.21). Conclusion: The current literature reveals high sensitivity and specificity in the use of ultrasonography in scaphoid fracture diagnosis. However, multiple factors including technical differences in ultrasound machines and probes, small sample sizes and variability of subsequent confirmatory tests have created a challenge in determining the ultimate reliability of ultrasonography in the diagnosis of occult scaphoid fractures. Considering these factors and limitations, large-sample and high-quality clinical trials are needed to adequately assess its reliability for this purpose. One stop clinics, in the authors' opinion, would be an ideal setting for its introduction as well as for future trials.

Background: Ultrasonography is widely utilized by emergency physicians and radiologists to diagnose various orthopaedic diseases, including fractures. We aim to derive a definitive estimate of the diagnostic accuracy of ultrasonography in clinically suspected scaphoid fractures. Methods: We undertook a systematic review and meta-analysis of included diagnostic cohort studies that discussed the use of ultrasonography in the diagnosis of occult scaphoid fractures. We searched the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence database using the Healthcare Databases Advanced Search tool. In addition, we utilized the PubMed database to search the Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online, Excerpta Medica database, Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health and Allied and Complimentary Medicine databases. Studies were included if they discuss the role of ultrasound imaging in the diagnosis of scaphoid fractures based on cortical interruption, radio-carpal effusion and scapho-trapezium-trapezoid effusion. Quality assessment was performed using the methodological index for non-randomized studies scoring system. Results: 6 non-randomized control studies met the inclusion criteria. Collectively, these included 236 patients with a mean age ranging from 18 to 41.2 years. The quality of these articles ranged between moderate and high based on the methodological index for non-randomized studies score. The mean sensitivity was 88.95% (standard deviation 10.03) and mean specificity was 89.50% (standard deviation 12.21). Conclusion: The current literature reveals high sensitivity and specificity in the use of ultrasonography in scaphoid fracture diagnosis. However, multiple factors including technical differences in ultrasound machines and probes, small sample sizes and variability of subsequent confirmatory tests have created a challenge in determining the ultimate reliability of ultrasonography in the diagnosis of occult scaphoid fractures. Considering these factors and limitations, large-sample and high-quality clinical trials are needed to adequately assess its reliability for this purpose. One stop clinics, in the authors’ opinion, would be an ideal setting for its introduction as well as for future trials.

Computer-based automated analysis of X-ray and thermal imaging of knee region in evaluation of rheumatoid arthritis

The aim and objectives of the study are as follows: (1) to perform automated segmentation of knee X-ray images using fast greedy snake algorithm and feature extraction using gray level co-occurrence matrix method, (2) to implement automated segmentation of knee thermal image using RGB segmentation method and (3) to compare the features extracted from the segmented knee region of X-ray and thermal images in rheumatoid arthritis patients using a biochemical method as standard. In all, 30 rheumatoid arthritis patients and 30 age- and sex-matched healthy volunteers were included in the study. X-ray and thermography images of knee regions were acquired, and biochemical tests were carried out subsequently. The X-ray images were segmented using fast greedy snake algorithm, and feature extractions were performed using gray level co-occurrence matrix method. The thermal image was segmented using RGB-based segmentation method and statistical features were extracted. Statistical features extracted after segmentation from X-ray and thermal imaging of knee region were correlated with the standard biochemical parameters. The erythrocyte sedimentation rate shows statistically significant correlations (p < 0.01) with the X-ray parameters such as joint space width and % combined cortical thickness. The skin surface temperature measured from knee region of thermal imaging was highly correlated with erythrocyte sedimentation rate. Among all the extracted features namely mean, variance, energy, homogeneity and difference entropy depict statistically significant percentage differences between the rheumatoid arthritis and healthy subjects. From this study, it was observed that thermal infrared imaging technique serves as a potential tool in the evaluation of rheumatoid arthritis at an earlier stage compared to radiography. Hence, it was predicted that thermal imaging method has a competency in the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis by automated segmentation methods.

Ultrasound-Guided Versus Landmark-Guided Local Corticosteroid Injection for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

OBJECTIVE

To review the literature and assess the comparative effectiveness of ultrasound-guided versus landmark-guided local corticosteroid injections in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS).

DATA SOURCES

Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE (PubMed), Embase (Ovid), and Web of Science (from inception to February 1, 2017).

STUDY SELECTION

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing ultrasound-guided injection with landmark-guided injection in patients with CTS were included.

DATA EXTRACTION

Two authors independently screened abstracts and full texts. The outcomes of interest were Symptom Severity Scale (SSS) and Functional Status Scale (FSS) scores of the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire and 4 electrodiagnostic parameters, including compound muscle action potential (CMAP), sensory nerve action potential (SNAP), distal motor latency (DML), and distal sensory latency (DSL).

DATA SYNTHESIS

Overall, 569 abstracts were retrieved and checked for eligibility; finally, 3 RCTs were included (181 injected hands). Pooled analysis showed that ultrasound-guided injection was more effective in SSS improvement (mean difference [MD], -.46; 95% confidence interval [CI], -.59 to -.32; P<.00001), whereas no significant difference was observed between the 2 methods in terms of the FSS (MD, -.25; 95% CI, -.56 to .05; P=.10). There were also no statistically significant differences in improvements of CMAP (MD, 1.54; 95% CI, 0.01 to 3.07; P=.05), SNAP (MD, -0.02; 95% CI, -6.27 to 6.23; P>.99), DML (MD, .05; 95% CI, -.30 to .39; P=.80), or DSL (MD, .00; 95% CI, -.65 to .65; P>.99).

CONCLUSIONS

This review suggested that ultrasound-guided injection was more effective than landmark-guided injection in symptom severity improvement in patients with CTS; however, no significant differences were observed in functional status or electrodiagnostic improvements between the 2 methods.

A New Active Contours Approach for Finger Extensor Tendon Segmentation in Ultrasound Images Using Prior Knowledge and Phase Symmetry

This work proposes a new approach for the segmentation of the extensor tendon in ultrasound images of the second metacarpophalangeal joint (MCPJ). The MCPJ is known to be frequently involved in early stages of rheumatic diseases like rheumatoid arthritis. The early detection and follow up of these diseases is important to start and adapt the treatments properly and, in that way, preventing irreversible damage of the joints. This work relies on an active contours framework, preceded by a phase symmetry preprocessing and with prior knowledge energies, to automatically identify the extensor tendon. Active contours methods are widely used in ultrasound images because of their robustness to speckle noise and ability to join unconnected smaller regions into a coherent shape. The tendon is formulated as a line so open ended active contours were used. Phase symmetry highlights the tendon, by setting a proper scale range and angle span. The distance between structures and the tendon slope were also included to enforce the model based on anatomical characteristics. And finally, the concavity measures were used because, given the anatomy of the finger, we know that the tendon line should have less than two concavities. To solve the active contours energy minimization a genetic algorithm approach was used. Several energy metric configurations were compared using the modified Hausdorff distance and results showed that this segmentation is not only possible, but exhibits errors smaller than 0.5 mm with a confidence of 95% with the phase symmetry preprocessing and energies based on the line neighborhood, area ratio, slope, and concavity measurements.

Evidence-Based Medicine: Current Evidence in the Diagnosis and Management of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

After studying this article, the participant should be able to: 1. Create a safe and effective plan for management of carpal tunnel syndrome. 2. Support his or her rationale for the use of diagnostic tests. 3. Discuss elements of management that have been controversial, including anesthesia, the use of a tourniquet, postoperative pain control, and cost of care.

SUMMARY

This is the fourth MOC-PS CME article on carpal tunnel syndrome. Each of the prior three has had a slightly different focus, and the reader is invited to review all to generate a comprehensive view of the management of this common, and often controversial, topic. The operative goal-to release the transverse carpal ligament-is straightforward: diagnosis, cause, and technique have generated more vibrant discussions.

Role of Ultrasonography in Knee Osteoarthritis

Ultrasound has become popular among rheumatologists as the first-choice imaging investigation for the evaluation and monitoring of osteoarthritis (OA). Because of recent improvement in technology, ultrasound has the ability to demonstrate and assess the minimal structural abnormalities, which involve the pathophysiology and progression of OA, such as articular cartilage, synovial tissue, bony cortex, and other soft tissue. Nowadays, ultrasonography is a promising technique for assessing soft tissue abnormalities such as joint effusion, synovial hypertrophy, Baker cyst, and other structural changes including the decrease in cartilage thickness, meniscus bulging, and formation of osteophyte. Ultrasonography not only possesses diagnostic potential in knee OA but also reveals long-term predictability for disease progress as imaging biomarker. Ultrasonography has also been proven as a useful tool in guiding therapeutic interventions and monitoring treatment effectiveness. This review addresses the utility, reliability, and potential utilization of ultrasonography as an imaging technique in knee OA.

Current and Prospective Use of Musculoskeletal Diagnostic Ultrasound Imaging at Chiropractic Teaching Institutions: A Worldwide Survey of Diagnostic Imaging Staff

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to survey the use of musculoskeletal diagnostic ultrasound imaging (MSK-DUSI) at chiropractic educational programs worldwide and to elicit opinions of academic diagnostic imaging staff of its prospective use at their teaching institutions.

METHODS

An electronic questionnaire was delivered in 2014 using SurveyMonkey and notifications were disseminated by e-mail to 127 diagnostic imaging staff at chiropractic programs worldwide. The questionnaire consisted of 27 items using multiple-choice, Likert-type, and open-ended questions. Descriptive statistics were used for basic demographic data and the results of the numerical scales used in each item.

RESULTS

Fifty-nine respondents (46.5%) from 24 (24/41) chiropractic programs returned questionnaires. The reported use of MSK-DUSI at chiropractic programs is low (n = 5/24); however, respondents from 9 institutions stated that it is planned to be implemented. Few respondents stated they had formal MSK-DUSI qualifications (4/59); however, 7 respondents stated they were in the process of becoming certified. Most respondents expressed an interest in the prospect of incorporating MSK-DUSI at their chiropractic program. Sixty-five percent stated that chiropractic programs should provide MSK-DUSI training to chiropractic students, and 75% of respondents stated that chiropractic programs should be providing accredited postgraduate MSK-DUSI courses.

CONCLUSIONS

The current use of MSK-DUSI among chiropractic programs that responded to this survey is low. The opinions of diagnostic imaging staff who responded suggest a positive attitude to its use and possible growth in its use if foundational work, including gaining funding, accreditation, and acceptance of within the scope of chiropractic practice, is undertaken.

Development and assessment of inter- and intra-rater reliability of a novel ultrasound tool for scoring tendon and sheath disease - A pilot study

BACKGROUND

Tendon and synovial sheath disease is common. A method of monitoring the status of tendons and sheaths is important for both diagnosis of pathology and evaluation of the efficacy of treatments. For this study, an ultrasound scoring tool was developed and its reliability tested between raters. The tool is novel in that it scores tendons and sheaths separately, an important consideration since disorders of these structures are not necessarily concurrent.

METHODS

Thirty diseased tendons and sheaths were included in this pilot cross-sectional study. Tendon and sheath measurements were taken and the semi-quantitative five-grade score was applied to assess tendon greyscale, tendon Doppler activity and sheath Doppler activity. Inter-rater and intra-rater agreement exercises were undertaken to test the reliability of the scoring tool.

RESULTS

The Intra-class Correlation Coefficient values for both the inter-rater and intra-rater reliability tests showed excellent agreement for the tendon and sheath measurements. Unweighted kappa estimations for inter-rater scores showed excellent agreement for tendon Doppler; good agreement was shown for scoring sheath Doppler, while poor agreement was shown for tendon grey-scale scoring. The intra-rater reliability scores demonstrated similar results.

CONCLUSION

Overall, the study strongly supports the use of this scoring tool for the diagnosis and follow-up of tendon and sheath disorders. The results may be used as a starting point from which to base further work in this important area. Future studies should address the limitations found in this research with a strong focus on improving tendon grey-scale measurement accuracy and agreement.

Point-of-care ultrasound as a competency for general internists: a survey of internal medicine training programs in Canada

BACKGROUND

Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) is increasingly used on General Internal Medicine (GIM) inpatient services, creating a need for defined competencies and formalized training. We evaluated the extent of training in POCUS and the clinical use of POCUS among Canadian GIM residency programs.

METHOD

Internal Medicine trainees and GIM Faculty at the University of Toronto were surveyed on their clinical use of POCUS and the extent of their training. We separately surveyed Canadian IM Program Directors and Division Directors on the extent of POCUS training in their programs, barriers in the implementation of POCUS curricula, and recommendations for POCUS competencies in IM.

RESULTS

A majority of IM trainees (90/118, 76%) and GIM Faculty (15/29, 52%) used POCUS clinically. However, the vast majority of resident (111/117, 95%) and GIM Faculty (18/28, 64%) had received limited training. Of the Program Leaders surveyed, half (9/17, 53%) reported POCUS clinical use by their trainees; however only one quarter (4/16, 25%) reported offering formal curricula. Most respondents agreed that POCUS training should be incorporated into IM residency curricula, specifically for procedural guidance.

CONCLUSIONS

A considerable discrepancy exists between the clinical use of POCUS and the extent of formal training among Canadian IM residents and GIM Faculty. We propose that formalized POCUS training should be incorporated into IM residency programs, GIM fellowships, and Faculty development sessions, and identify POCUS skills that could be incorporated into future IM curricula.

Anomalous abductor digiti minimi in Guyon canal: A cadaver study

A routine cadaver dissection revealed a noteworthy anomalous muscle in the distal anterior forearm. Clinicians should be aware of this finding and consider it as a differential diagnosis in patients with wrist disorders such as ulnar tunnel syndrome from occlusion of the ulnar canal. A space-occupying lesion, such as the anomalous muscle found in this dissection, is an important potential source of ulnar canal obstruction.

Diagnostic value of high-frequency ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging in early rheumatoid arthritis

Early diagnosis and management improve the outcome of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The present study explored the application of high-frequency ultrasound (US) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the detection of early RA. Thirty-nine patients (20 males and 19 females) diagnosed with early RA were enrolled in the study. A total of 1,248 positions, including 858 hand joints and 390 tendons, were examined by high-frequency US and MRI to evaluate the presence of bone erosion, bone marrow edema (BME), synovial proliferation, joint effusion, tendinitis and tendon sheath edema. The imaging results of the above abnormalities, detected by US, were compared with those identified using MRI. No statistically significant overall changes were observed between high-frequency US and MRI in detecting bone erosion [44 (5.1%) vs. 35 (4.1%), respectively; P>0.05], tendinitis [18 (4.6%) vs. 14 (1.5%), respectively; P>0.05] and tendon sheath edema [37 (9.5%) vs. 30 (7.7%), respectively; P>0.05]. Significant differences were observed between high-frequency US and MRI with regards to the detection of synovial proliferation [132 (15.4%) vs. 66 (7.7%), respectively; P<0.05] and joint effusion [89 (10.4%) vs. 52 (6.1%), respectively; P<0.05]. In addition, significant differences were identified between the detection of BME using MRI compared with high-frequency US (5.5 vs. 0%, respectively; P<0.05). MRI and high-frequency US of the dominant hand and wrist joints were comparably sensitive to bone erosion, tendinitis and tendon sheath edema. However, MRI was more sensitive in detecting bone marrow edema in early RA, while US was more sensitive in the evaluation of joint effusion and synovial proliferation. In conclusion, US and MRI are promising for the detection and diagnosis of inflammatory activity in patients with RA.

Ultrasound-detected subclinical inflammation was better reflected by the disease activity score (DAS-28) in patients with suspicion of inflammatory arthritis compared to established rheumatoid arthritis

Limited data are available about the ultrasound (US)-detected inflammatory features in patients with suspicion of inflammatory arthritis (S-IA) vs. established rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Our study aimed to assess if the presence of power Doppler (PD) can be predicted by a combination of clinical, laboratory and US parameters. We conducted a real-life, retrospective cohort study comparing clinical, laboratory and US parameters of 108 patients with established RA and 93 patients with S-IA. We propose a PD signal prediction model based on a beta-binomial distribution for PD variable using a mix of outcome measures. Patients with RA in clinical remission had significantly more active inflammation and erosions on US when compared with patients with S-IA with similar disease scores (p = 0.03 and p = 0.01, respectively); however, RA patients with different disease activity score (DAS-28) scores had similar PD scores (p = 0.058). The PD scores did not correlate with erosions (p = 0.38) or DAS-28 scores (p = 0.28) in RA patients, but they correlated with high disease activity in S-IA patients (p = 0.048). Subclinical inflammation is more common in patients with RA in clinical remission or with low disease activity than in patients with S-IA; therefore, US was more useful in assessing for true remission in RA rather than diagnosing IA in patients with low disease activity scores. This is the first study to propose a PD prediction model integrating several outcome measures in the two different groups of patients. Further research into validating this model can minimise the risk of underdiagnosing subclinical inflammation.

Ultrasound Assessment of Synovial Thickness of Some of the Metacarpophalangeal Joints of Hand in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients and the Normal Population

Objective. To compare ultrasound synovial thickness of the 2nd, 3rd and 4th metacarpophalangeal joints (MCPJ) in a group of patients with proven rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and a control group of normal individuals. Materials and Methods. This is a cross-sectional study comprising 30 rheumatoid arthritis patients and 30 healthy individuals. Ultrasound scans were performed at the dorsal side of 2nd, 3rd, and 4th MCPJ of both hands in RA patients and the healthy individuals. Synovial thickness was measured according to quantitative method. The synovial thickness of RA patients and healthy individuals was compared and statistical cut-off was identified. Results. Maximum synovial thickness was most often detected at the radial side of the 2nd MCPJ and 3rd MCPJ and ulnar side of the 4th MCPJ of both hands which is significantly higher (p < 0.05) in RA patients compared to healthy individuals. With high specificity (96%) and sensitivity (90%) the optimum cut-off value to distinguish RA patients and healthy individuals' synovial thickness differs for the radial side of the 2nd and 3rd MCPJ and ulnar side of the 4th MCPJ. Conclusion. Patients with early RA appear to exhibit a characteristic pattern of synovitis which shows radial side predominance in the 2nd and 3rd MCPJ and ulnar side in the 4th MCPJ.

Clinical utilization of musculoskeletal sonography involving non-physician rehabilitation providers: a scoping review

BACKGROUND

Musculoskeletal sonography use in point-of-care physical medicine and rehabilitation is rapidly expanding, not only by physiatrists, but also by non-physician rehabilitation providers.

AIM

The aim of the present review was to evaluate the current range, extent and nature of the related literature and to identify emerging areas of evidence for the use of musculoskeletal sonography involving non-physician rehabilitation providers to guide research and clinical practice.

DESIGN

Scoping review.

SETTING

Inpatient, outpatient, other.

POPULATION

Musculoskeletal conditions.

METHODS

Five databases were searched and 578 unique abstracts were identified and screened for eligibility. Three raters independently read 68 full texts, and 36 articles that reported on applied uses of sonography by non-physician rehabilitation providers were included.

RESULTS

Eighteen studies described direct clinical use, primarily for outcomes measurement (N.=12) or as a biofeedback intervention (N.=10). Twelve laboratory studies were included that related morphology to patient reports or validated clinical interventions. Six additional studies, although not involving non-physician providers, were included as they presented potential valuable uses that were not noted in the other included studies, such as monitoring bone healing, tendon repair, and evaluation of idiopathic symptom reports or non-specific primary diagnoses.

CONCLUSIONS

This review indicates that non-physician rehabilitation providers use sonography for outcomes measurement and biofeedback interventions. Research is needed to evaluate effects of these uses on patient outcomes and to explore additional potential uses for clinical reasoning, treatment planning, and monitoring of tissue healing related to intervention.

CLINICAL REHABILITATION IMPACT

Implementation of musculoskeletal sonography by non-physician rehabilitation providers has the potential to be a critically advantageous addition to improve care.

The accuracy of diagnostic ultrasound imaging for musculoskeletal soft tissue pathology of the extremities: a comprehensive review of the literature

Musculoskeletal diagnostic ultrasound imaging (MSK-DUSI) has been growing outside the traditional radiology speciality. Increased use of this technology has been reported in several healthcare settings, however an apparent gap in the knowledge of the accuracy of this diagnostic technology indicated a review was warranted. We undertook a structured review of the literature to assess the accuracy of MSK-DUSI for the diagnosis of musculoskeletal soft tissue pathology of the extremities. An electronic search of the National Library of Medicine’s PubMed database (1972 to mid-2014) was conducted. All relevant systematic reviews of diagnostic studies, all diagnostic studies published after the date of the latest systematic reviews and relevant diagnostic studies outside the scope the systematic reviews that directly compared the accuracy of MSK-DUSI (the index test) to an appropriate reference standard for the target condition were included. A fundamental appraisal of the methodological quality of studies was completed. The individual sensitivity, specificity and likelihood ratio data were extracted and entered into diagnostic accuracy tables. A total of 207 individual studies were included. The results show that MSK-DUSI has acceptable diagnostic accuracy for a wide spectrum of musculoskeletal conditions of the extremities. However, there is a lack of high quality prospective experimental studies in this area and as such clinicians should interpret the results with some caution due to the potential for overestimation of diagnostic accuracy.

Bilateral congenital absence of flexor pollicis longus with thumb hypoplasia and thenar atrophy

Congenital absence of flexor pollicis longus with or without associated anomalies of thenar muscles and thumb is of rare occurrence. Inability to flex the interphalangeal joint of the thumb and absent dorsal wrinkles and flexion creases of the thumb are important clues to the diagnosis. Routine radiography and cross-sectional imaging help to confirm and document the condition. This article presents an extremely rare case of bilateral congenital absence of flexor pollicis longus tendon with thumb hypoplasia and thenar atrophy.

The accuracy of bedside ultrasonography as a diagnostic tool for the fifth metatarsal fractures

OBJECTIVES

Musculoskeletal ultrasonography is a technique that is becoming more popular in diagnosing injuries of emergency department (ED) patients especially for the diagnosis of fractures. In this study, we determined the reliability of ultrasonography for the diagnosis of fractures of the fifth metatarsal.

METHOD

This is a prospective blind study. Patients over 14 years old who were admitted to the ED with acute foot injury and who had tenderness on the fifth metatarsal were consecutively enrolled into the study. A bedside ultrasonography exam was performed by an emergency physician, and antero-posterior and oblique views were obtained. X-rays were blindly evaluated by an orthopedic surgeon and were considered to be the gold-standard for diagnosing fractures. In patients with noncomminuted fractures, bone displacement was measured by both radiologically and sonographically.

RESULTS

Eighty-four patients were included in this study. Their mean age was 36.0, and 42.9% were male. Fractures were diagnosed by both x-ray and ultrasonography in 33 patients. In one patient, the x-ray was positive for fracture, while ultrasonography yielded a negative result. For the fractures of fifth metatarsal, the diagnostic sensitivity of ultrasonography was 97.1%, the specificity was 100%, the positive likelihood ratio was infinity, the negative likelihood ratio was 0.03. Mean displacement was 1.2 ± 0.7 mm with x-ray and 1.8 ± 1.5 mm with ultrasonography. The intraclass correlation coefficient of displacement measured by x-ray and ultrasonography was κ: 0.388.

CONCLUSION

Ultrasonography is a reliable diagnostic tool for acute fifth metatarsal fractures.

Symptomatic Hallucal Interphalangeal Sesamoid Bones Successfully Treated with Ultrasound-guided Injection - A Case Report -

The hallucal interphalangeal sesamoid bone is usually asymptomatic, but it is not uncommon for it to be symptomatic in cases of undue pressure, overuse, or trauma. Even in symptomatic cases, however, patients often suffer for extended periods due to misdiagnosis, resulting in depression and anxiety that can steadily worsen to the extent that symptoms are sometimes mistaken for a somatoform disorder. Dynamic ultrasound-guided evaluations can be an effective means of detecting symptomatic sesamoid bones, and a simple injection of a small dose of local anesthetics mixed with steroids is an easily performed and effective treatment option in cases, for example, of tenosynovitis.