Currently, the diagnosis of musculoskeletal complains typically follows a long established pathway of presentation to the GP either directly or via an allied health profession such as a physiotherapist or podiatrist.
At this stage, the patient may have been suffering from these complaints for several weeks already.
Correct timely diagnosis may be pivotal in preventing irreversible damage or suboptimal remodelling of tendons/ligaments, cartilage or bone matrix.
In the case of incorrect clinical assessment; the coexistence of compounding pathology and the targeted treatment of symptoms rather than the cause can all lead to delayed medical aid, or even exacerbation of symptoms.
In the event that a referral for further imaging is made, an appointment typically can take several weeks, if not months, to materialise, in which time, further damage or disease progression may be inevitable.
The advantages of medical diagnostic ultrasound in the field of musculoskeletal medicine are well documented. There is no exposure to potentially harmful ionising radiation and the exam is relatively painless with no requirement for image enhancing intravenous contrasts.
One of the unique benefits of ultrasound is the advantage of dynamic, real-time assessment of joints and associated soft tissue structures which often cannot be ascertained from static imaging such as MRI, CT or plain radiographic imaging. For instance, the identification of the likely cause of shoulder impingement may only be evident through simultaneous movement of the joint and real-time ultrasound imaging.
Crucially, in private practice, ultrasound services are comparatively, relatively accessible and are much less expensive than other soft tissue imaging modalities such as MRI, yet comparative in diagnostic sensitivity and specificity for many soft tissue structures and joints. Furthermore, results can typically be generated immediately following the examination and disseminated to third parties on request just as quickly.
Waveaway MSK ultrasound services seek to offer a prompt solution to the delayed access of diagnostic imaging. A patient will have the opportunity to undergo a diagnostic MSK ultrasound examination within a drastically shorter timeframe, from a referral from their GP or allied health professional or via direct self-referral (if medical or clinical value exist).
Our mission is to use medical ultrasound, the primary real-time imaging modality, to provide a low risk dynamic picture of musculoskeletal complaints, in a timely manner, to empower clinicians with the information needed for early management strategies.
