Hand, Wrist, Knee, Shoulder etc. Ultrasound

Ultrasounds of the extremities such as hands, wrists, knees, shoulders quadriceps etc are also called Musculo-Skeletal (MSK) or Extremities Ultrasounds.

Why Have an Extremities Ultrasound?

There are many reasons why your doctor may refer you to have an MSK Ultrasound. They include:

• Muscle soreness
• Joint soreness
• Limited movement around a joint
• History of surgery in the area
• Impending surgery in the area
• Recent or past injury

Who performs the examination?

Ultrasounds are performed by specialist ultrasound staff called sonographers. All X-RAY & IMAGING sonographers have a minimum of 10 years clinical ultrasound experience.

What happens during the examination?

In most cases you will be required to remove any clothing that obstructs the area being examined. Once in the ultrasound room the sonographer will apply a gel to the skin of the area being examined. A marker pen shaped instrument called a transducer is then passed over the gelled area in a sweeping motion. Images will appear on a screen in front of you in real time showing the internal muscles and tissues. Once the sonographer is satisfied that the pictures are accurate the examination is over.

The images are reviewed and interpreted by a radiologist and are printed for you to take with you to your next doctor's appointment.

In most cases the whole process takes less than an hour from entering the building and leaving with your results.

Is the examination painful or uncomfortable?

Other than the initial cool feeling of the gel, you should not feel any pain or discomfort during this examination.

What does it show?

As ultrasound images show real time footage it is possible to see flexion or extension of certain muscles and the effect the movement has on the surrounding ligaments and tendons. This can be an extremely effective way of diagnosing the function of the area being examined.

Do I need to do any preparation for an Extremities/MSK Ultrasound?

You should wear comfortable loose fitting clothes to avoid having to change wherever possible. Other than that there is no preparation required.

Where can I have this examination and how much does it cost?

It is possible to have this examination performed at any X-RAY & IMAGING practice.

As with all our general ultrasound, X-RAY & IMAGING bulk bill ($0) to all patients entitled to Medicare, DVA or Work Cover who have a doctor's referral.

Do I have to book an appointment?

Yes. MSK ultrasounds are not always available every day as it is a Medicare requirement for a Doctor to be on site during the examination.

As with all our General Ultrasound, X-RAY & IMAGING bulk bill ($0) MSK Ultrasounds to all patients entitled to Medicare, DVA and Work Cover who have a doctor's referral.

Call your nearest X-RAY & IMAGING practice to book an appointment.

Caloundra (07) 5438 2011

Coolum (07) 5446 1599