Ultrasound-guided injections of the knee and hip joints

Abstract

Intra-articular knee and hip injections have been a mainstay for the treatment of peripheral joint pain. Although these injections are routinely performed using a blind technique, when compared with fluoroscopically guided injections, reported accuracy of needle placement is highly variable. Ultrasound (US)-guided injections provide a reasonable alternative for ensuring accurate, intra-articular needle placement, without the risks associated with radiation exposure from fluoroscopy. This article presents suitable techniques for performing US-guided intra-articular knee and hip injections. With appropriate training, it would be feasible for physicians to incorporate US-guided injections into their clinical practices.