Ultrasonography: the third eye of hand surgeons

Abstract

High-resolution ultrasonography is an important tool used for the diagnosis and management of inflammatory arthritis of the hand and wrist. This imaging modality has also proven its utility in the evaluation of traumatic lesions of tendons, nerves, annular pulleys, ligaments, and carpal and digital injuries and for detecting foreign bodies and causes of joint locking. One of the great advantages is the possibility of getting an internal image of the involved anatomical structure in axial, coronal, and transversal planes, as well as the option for observing dynamic changes during motion. Examiners may view the structures in the way it suits them best. The objective of this article is to summarize the author’s own experience, to point out the advantage of ultrasonography in diagnosing some selective traumatic and non-traumatic lesions, and to highlight its role in these conditions.