Ultrasound-Guided Intra-Articular Injection of the Trapeziometacarpal Joint: Description of Technique

Abstract

Umphrey GL, Brault JS, Hurdle M-FB, Smith J. Ultrasound-guided intra-articular injection of the trapeziometacarpal joint: description of technique. ObjectiveTo describe a new technique to perform an ultrasound-guided intra-articular injection of the trapeziometacarpal (TMC) joint. DesignUltrasound-guided injection of the TMC joint was completed on fresh frozen cadaver hand specimens using diatriazoate meglumine contrast. A fluoroscopic posteroanterior image of the TMC joint was then obtained to verify intra-articular placement of the contrast. SettingAnatomy lab in a medical college. SpecimensSeventeen fresh frozen cadaver hand specimens. InterventionsNot applicable. Main Outcomes MeasureVerification of this technique was confirmed using fluoroscopy and contrast. ResultsSixteen (94%) of 17 joints injected showed contrast material within the TMC joint with a single cutaneous puncture. One intra-articular injection was initially misplaced into the scaphotrapeziotrapezoid joint. ConclusionsUltrasound may be used to accurately perform intra-articular TMC injections. Ultrasound provides a viable alternative to fluoroscopy when accurate injection into the TMC joint is required for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes.