Ultrasound-Guided Procedures in Common Tendinopathies at the Elbow: From Image to Needle

Abstract

Elbow pain is a prevalent condition in musculoskeletal physicians’ settings. The majority of cases present with periarticular pathologies (varying from tendinopathy to nerve entrapment syndrome). Nevertheless, in some cases, the underlying cause can be intra-articular, e.g., loose bodies or rheumatic disease. Progress in ultrasound (US) technology has yielded high-resolution assessment of the elbow and, importantly, allows real-time, radiation-free guidance for interventions. Particularly in ambiguous cases, US imaging is necessary to arrive at the correct diagnosis. The following four clinical conditions are covered: tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, distal biceps, and distal triceps tendinopathy. The present review illustrates cadaveric elbow anatomy, corresponding US images, and exemplary pathologies. Additionally, the authors also discuss the existing evidence on ultrasound-guided procedures in the conditions mentioned above.