Rheumatologists’ ultrasound confidence and technique are improved by a two day cadaveric sonoanatomy course

Iain Goff,Debra Patten,David Wright

doi:10.1186/1471-2474-14-s1-a13

Abstract

Background Correct interpretation of musculoskeletal ultrasound (MSUS) requires thorough knowledge of normal anatomy, but several authors report deficiencies in anatomy skills among rheumatologists. Cadaver-based anatomy review courses improve clinical and injection skills, but the value of such courses in MSUS training is unclear. During 2010-12 we delivered two cadaver based, MSUS anatomy courses for the British Society of Rheumatology (BSR), and measured confidence to perform key MSUS learning objectives before and after the course using a self-assessment questionnaire.

Highlights

Correct interpretation of musculoskeletal ultrasound (MSUS) requires thorough knowledge of normal anatomy, but several authors report deficiencies in anatomy skills among rheumatologists
The two day course in March 2012 consisted of orientation lectures with MR imaging; expert led, small group workshops handling cadaveric specimens; simultaneous access to real-time ultrasound on live models; and ultrasound practice on patients with pathological anatomy
Ten item confidence logs based on British Society of Rheumatology (BSR) core competency outcomes and ability to diagnose EULAR pathologies were completed by delegates pre-course, end and four weeks post course

Summary

Background

Correct interpretation of musculoskeletal ultrasound (MSUS) requires thorough knowledge of normal anatomy, but several authors report deficiencies in anatomy skills among rheumatologists. Cadaver-based anatomy review courses improve clinical and injection skills, but the value of such courses in MSUS training is unclear. During 2010-12 we delivered two cadaver based, MSUS anatomy courses for the British Society of Rheumatology (BSR), and measured confidence to perform key MSUS learning objectives before and after the course using a self-assessment questionnaire

Methods

Conclusion

Results