Wrist Ultrasound Scan
The wrist bones provide essential support and flexibility to allow for precise manipulation of objects. Each hand is made up of 27 unique bones that enable a remarkable range of motion. The ulna and radius in the forearm support the muscles responsible for controlling wrist movements.
Despite the complexity of wrist anatomy and the variety of conditions that can occur, many issues tend to be localised, with clinical concerns often being specific and well-defined. This makes ultrasound an excellent imaging tool for diagnosing related conditions.
Wrist injuries frequently affect athletes, impacting ligaments, joint surfaces, tendons, muscles and nerves. These injuries may also be acute or chronic.
Purpose of the Wrist Ultrasound Scan
A wrist ultrasound scan is performed to evaluate the musculoskeletal structures within the joint such as:
- Carpal tunnel and ulnar nerve
- Midcarpal joints
- Six extensor compartments
- Distal radioulnar joint
- Triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC)
- Abnormal fluid build-up or inflammation in the wrist
Why Get a Wrist Ultrasound Scan?
Wrist ultrasound is important in diagnosing:
- Pain
- Restricted movement
- Wrist effusion or synovial thickening (traumatic, inflammatory, or septic)
- Tenosynovitis
- Erosions caused by inflammatory arthritis
- De Quervain’s tenosynovitis
- Intersection syndrome
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Ganglion cysts
- Tendinosis
- Partial or full-thickness tendon tears
- Avulsion injuries
- Scapholunate ligament injuries
- Neuromas
- TFCC injuries
- Aneurysm or pseudoaneurysm
What to Expect
Before the procedure, the sonographer will explain the process in detail. You will be seated with your arm resting on a pillow while a small amount of gel is applied to your wrist. The ultrasound probe will then be moved in various directions to assess the structures within the joint. In some cases, you may be asked to move your wrist during the scan to help evaluate the affected region in motion.
Throughout and after the scan, the sonographer will discuss the findings, and you will receive a detailed ultrasound report to take with you. If necessary, follow-up recommendations will also be given.