Ultrasonography of the carpus

To scan the entire carpus may be time consuming, and it is suggested that the area or areas identified clinically or with other modalities, such as radiography or scintigraphy, be ultrasonographically evaluated in detail and the rest of the carpus scanned in a more cursory manner if time is not available. Carpal anatomy should be revised prior to ultrasonographic evaluation, if the ultrasonographer is unfamiliar with the area to be scanned. A 7.5-13 MHz linear transducer is advised for evaluating the carpus, with or without a standoff pad, depending on the depth of the area to be evaluated. A split screen or C-scape modality can be used to make a composite image on the screen. The figures in this chapter include a view of the joint to show where the transducer is positioned. Ultrasound-guided surgical procedures of the carpus include removal of osteochondral fragments of carpal bones and foreign bodies.