Diagnostic value of MSK ultrasound for lateral epicondylitis
MSK ultrasound has been advocated as a diagnostic imaging modalty for the detection of soft tissue injuries. Literature has suggested that MSK ultrasound has a growing place in modern healthcare. However, no review has examined all the available literature on the diagnostic test accuracy of MSK ultrasound for detecting lateral epicondylitis. Therefore, the purpose of this review was specifically to analyse the literature relating to the diagnostic test accuracy of MSK ultrasound for the detection of suspected lateral epicondylitis.
MSK ultrasound had variable sensitivity and specificity (sensitivity: 64%–100%; specificity: 36%–100%). The use of MSK ultrasound in the detection of lateral epicondylitis is recommended with caution since its accuracy appears to be highly dependent on numerous variables.
Current evidence emphasises the advantages of the non-invasive, cheap, quick and accessiblenature of diagnostic MSK ultrasound compared to MRI or arthroscopy. Nonetheless, MSK ultrasound requires extensive skill and experience to operate effectively. The increased use of MSK ultrasound for the detection of lateral epicondylitis in clinical practice indicates the growing recognition of its potential.
> From: Latham et al., Orthop Traumatol Surg Res 100 (2015) 281–286. All rights reserved to Elsevier Masson SAS. Click here for the Pubmed summary.
