Ultrasound

What Is Diagnostic Ultrasound?

Ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of structures inside the body. At Katranji Hand Center, diagnostic ultrasound is an essential tool in evaluating conditions affecting the hand, wrist, elbow, and upper extremities.

Unlike X-rays, which show bones, ultrasound allows us to visualize soft tissues like tendons, nerves, muscles, and blood vessels—helping guide accurate diagnoses and targeted treatments.

What Ultrasound Can Detect

Ultrasound is especially useful for identifying:

• Tendon tears or inflammation (e.g., De Quervain’s tenosynovitis, trigger finger)

• Nerve compression or abnormalities (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome)

• Joint effusions (fluid buildup)

• Ganglion cysts or masses

• Muscle or ligament injuries

• Foreign bodies embedded in soft tissue

• Dynamic movement issues (seen in real-time with active motion)

Ultrasound can also guide procedures, such as cortisone injections, ensuring precision and reducing the risk of complications.

Benefits of In-House Ultrasound

At Katranji Hand Center, offering in-house ultrasound provides several advantages:

• Immediate imaging during your visit

• Real-time feedback for quicker diagnosis and treatment planning

• No radiation exposure

• Cost-effective and comfortable compared to MRI or CT

• Ideal for dynamic evaluation, allowing movement to be assessed during the scan

When Ultrasound Is Recommended

Your provider may recommend an ultrasound if you are experiencing:

• Unexplained pain, swelling, or stiffness

• Numbness or tingling suggesting nerve entrapment

• Lumps or bumps under the skin

• Injuries that haven’t healed or continue to cause discomfort

• Need for guided injection or aspiration

What to Expect During Your Ultrasound

• Painless and quick—typically 10–20 minutes

• A small probe (transducer) and gel are used on the skin

• You may be asked to move or flex your fingers, wrist, or arm

• Results are interpreted directly by your specialist during the same visit

Follow-Up and Treatment

Depending on the results, next steps may include:

• Physical or occupational therapy

• Splinting or bracing

• Corticosteroid injections

• Surgical consultation, if structural damage is found

• Continued monitoring with follow-up imaging

Ultrasound allows us to personalize your care with precision—getting you back to your daily activities with the most effective treatment plan possible.