Clinical specialty
Mark Maybury is a Research Physiotherapist and Sonographer. In this video, he carries out a live demo using an ultrasound machine to scan the main Metacarpophalangeal (MCP), Distal Interphalangeal (DIP) and Proximal Interphalangeal (PIP) joints.
Mark demonstrates how to position to the probe by identifying different joints and tendons. He also explains how to move the probe along the hand to get a clear image on each of the hand/finger joints.
A hockey stick probe is the preferred probes used by Mark to perform the ultrasound. This type of probe is smaller than usual and is the perfect size for getting into small areas, such as the hands.
If there is any damage to the MCP joints, diagnosis and treatment must be provided as soon as possible to prevent the loss of joint motion or permanent damage. This is were ultrasound imaging comes to play. Ultrasound scanning is a reliable, quick and safe procedure that patients can undergo to access their ligaments, tendons and joints.
Ultrasound imaging provides a real-time and high-quality image that medical professionals can use to rapidly diagnose any breaks or tears within the joint. Therefore, being able to easily perform this procedure and identify the correct joints is vital. The video demo of MCP joints ultrasound can be view by clicking the link below.
