Musculoskeletal Ultrasound
Why MSK ultrasound?
Ultrasound (US) is a non invasive tool that uses sound waves to help image structures in the body for diagnostic purposes. MSK ultrasound specifically refers to use of US to assess tendons, ligaments, muscles, cartilage, nerves, joint spaces, superficial bony surfaces, and subcutaneous soft tissue. When a sprain, tear, neuropathy, inflammation, or superficial mass is suspected clinically, MSK US in many instances can be an alternative to MRI at a reduced cost to the patient and health care system. The ability of US to visualize inflammation within soft tissue structures can complement diagnosis of inflammatory arthritic conditions and monitor response to treatment.
Should I get a MRI or MSK US?
MSK US and MRI are both useful imaging modalities for a variety of common conditions. An example of some conditions for which MSK US may be used can be found here. MRI offers a broader, more detailed evaluation of your joint compared to US limitations from tissue depth and inability to penetrate bony surfaces. US however has several advantages over MRI. US is not degraded by the inability of a patient to remain still during their examination as with MRI. In fact, US can evaluate structures through dynamic motion, something recumbent MRI scanners cannot do. Patients with claustrophobia or with metal implants may prefer or benefit form a US examination. In some instances, you may benefit from both a MRI and US examination as they can provide complimentary information which may better inform your treatment.
For Health Care Providers
To refer a patient please complete a US referral form. Fax a copy to Atlas Radiology and provide a one to your patient they can bring to their appointment. Your office or your patient can schedule the examination using the link below.
For Patients
While this is private imaging, we are not currently accepting walk-in appointments. A completed referral form completed by your health care provider is required. Alternatively, you can print this informed patient request form and have your physician, chiropractor, therapist, acupuncturist or other health care provider complete it to confirm a diagnostic ultrasound would be appropriate for you. Once you have a completed document you can schedule your appointment for a musculoskeletal ultrasound below.
Scheduling your MSK US
Online booking is available below. Please bring your completed form and any pertinent reports on prior imaging if not through Atlas Radiology to your appointment. If you can't find an appointment online call us directly for assistance in booking your exam.
Cost
Your MSK US examination is not a covered service through the Manitoba Provincial Health Authority at this time. Fees will vary based on the type of scan that is requested. Pricing:
$125 for a full joint ultrasound and will take about 30 minutes
$75 for a focused body part scan for a specific diagnosis and will last approximately 15 minutes.
$200 for a 4 body part rheumatology exam and will take approximately 60 minutes.
Your private MSK US at Atlas Radiology Consultants can reduce your wait time for any follow up or management.
If there are no appointments available, please check back or call us to be added to the waitlist for cancellations or next available appointments.
What to Expect
US is a quick and painless diagnostic study and well tolerated. Wear comfortable clothing. Depending on the examination requested, you may be required to change into a gown or a pair of shorts to better expose the area of interest to the sonographer. If you prefer, you can bring a tank top for shoulder scans or shorts for hip, knee, thigh, and calf exams. The sonographer will apply gel to the area and move around a transducer. At times you may feel a degree of pressure from the transducer or you be asked to move your body part being scanned. You may be required to change positions during the scan and at times the sonographer may scan your non painful side for comparison. Once the scan is complete, the images will be submitted to the radiologist who will send a report on your study to your referring physician or chiropractor.
COVID 19 Mask Policy
Due to close contact with the sonographer during performance of the examination, masks are recommended but not required for patients and guests while in the room during the ultrasound examination.
What Else Should You Know?
If you have had prior imaging on the body part being scanned, such as an x-ray or prior MRI or CT scan, please bring the results with you to your appointment or, if possible, the images and/or reports forwarded to Atlas Radiology Consultants. Comparing the results can be beneficial for diagnosis.
Services Not Currently Available
At this time, Atlas Radiology Consultants US scans are limited to diagnostic musculoskeletal ultrasound. Non MSK US examinations including breast, thyroid, abdomen, and gynecologic, and US guided therapeutic injections or biopsies are not currently available.
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