Ultrasound for Orthopedics and Sports Medicine

Over the last few decades in medicine, the evolution of Ultrasound in medicine has grown considerable. We first began using Ultrasound in the Obstetric world to visualize the new life of the fetus and check for any abnormalities in the developmental process. 

Ultrasound has also been used to look into the body to diagnose soft tissue problems like the liver, kidneys, heart, blood vessels, uterus and many other intra-abdominal organs. 

As the knowledge by orthopedics and musculoskeletal specialist grows, ultrasound is used for more and more applications.

Ultrasound visualization, also refer to as sonography, uses a transducer that is connected to a computer (ultrasound machine) to transmit sound waves that then gets processed. The computer system is able to display the image of the specific structure being visualized in seconds. 

Why to use Ultrasound in Orthopedics and Sports Medicine

Ultrasound give the physician a fast and safe objective look of the soft tissues or problem the patient might have. This will help your physician in getting a more accurate diagnosis and better treatment plan. 

Is an Ultrasound all I need to diagnose my problem?

Every orthopedic problem is unique and every patient’s situation is different, although the use of ultrasound can many times provide the diagnosis, some of the time the physician might need additional test like xrays, CT scans or MRIs.

Advantages of Ultrasound

–       Fast, cheap and reliable

–       Cover by insurance, pre authorization is not require by insurances. This means that the physician can perform the ultrasound scan the same day of the visit without having to ask insurance for pre- approval.

–       No contraindication 

–       Safe for pregnancy, kids and elderly

–       No radiation exposure

–       Able to be perform in patient that have metal hardware. 

–       Can help in procedures

Disadvantages of Ultrasound

–       Operator dependent. Our biggest limitation is that very few physicians are trained in the use of musculoskeletal ultrasound.

–       Cannot see through bone, this limit full visualization of intraarticular (inside the joints) problems

What are some of the most common orthopedic problems that an Ultrasound can see?

–       Tendon tears or inflammation

–       Ligament tears or sprains

–       Muscle tears or strains

–       Swelling 

–       Hematomas

–       Many other acute or chronic injuries

If you are suffering from a musculoskeletal injury or condition, there is a good chance ultrasound imaging should be a part of your diagnosis and treatment plan. Seeking out a physician with advanced proficiency in ultrasound imaging could lead to safer, more affordable, and more accurate treatment. Dr. Gonzalez is among the leading ultrasound operators in south florida. Call us to discuss if ultrasound can be used to help your case.