Wrist Scan
A wrist scan is an imaging procedure that employs high-frequency sound waves to generate visuals of the internal wrist structures. This test helps assess the wrist’s ligaments, tendons, and muscles, along with the bones, nerves, and joint fluid. Wrist-related injuries frequently occur in adults, especially after a trauma like a fall or excessive joint use. Such injuries may be temporary (acute) or persistent (chronic).
Purpose of the Wrist Scan
In most cases, we may recommend the wrist ultrasound to examine:
- Wrist injury
- Wrist pain
- Limited wrist mobility
- Discomfort in the wrist
- Tingling or loss of sensation extending to the hand and fingers
- Numbness in the wrist that radiates to the hand and fingers
- Inflammation in the wrist
- Lump or swelling in the wrist
- Post-surgical complications (like abscess or oedema)
- Monitoring rheumatoid arthritis
- Detecting foreign objects embedded in soft tissue
What Conditions Can a Wrist Scan Detect?
The wrist scans help diagnose various wrist conditions, including:
- Inflammation (tenosynovitis, synovitis)
- Tendonitis
- Sprains and tears
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- De Quervain’s tenosynovitis
- Traumatic injuries
- Neuromas
- Ganglion cysts
- Arthritis
- Repetitive strain injuries
- Infections
Procedure Details
A wrist scan employs ultrasound waves to provide a clear view of the inner structures. It is a fast, painless, and entirely safe procedure.
After the scan, your provider will review and discuss the results with you. They will also give you a diagnostic ultrasound report and recommend the next course of action or follow-up if needed.