Prospective and Observational Study On A Clinico-Radiological Correlation of Wrist Joint Pain

Abstract

Background: Wrist joint pain is one of the commonest conditions that are encountered in the Orthopedic OPD. The prevalence of wrist joint pain is increasing because of repetitive stress injury caused by increased use of personal computers, mobile phones, laptops and other latest devices. Diagnosis is made clinically and confirmed by imaging modalities. The imaging modalities used are X-ray, Ultrasonography and MR imaging. Imaging modalities play a very important role in the diagnosis. High frequency sonography combined with physical examination often solves the diagnostic challenges. High resolution real time ultrasound has shown to be cost effective means of investigating the wrist joint.
Objective: To evaluate a patient with wrist joint pain in terms of assessment by Ultrasound as the first line of imaging modality. To use ultrasound along with X-rays and clinical examination to aid in quick and decisive diagnosis, thus avoiding further investigative modalities which are costlier.
Methods: Prospective analysis of 100 patients presenting with wrist pain were included in our study. A pre-formed written consent is also taken. All patients underwent a thorough clinical examination, followed by X-ray (PA & Lateral) of the affected wrist and USG of the affected wrist with comparison of the opposite side.
Results: The clinical presentation of wrist pain can be due to a wide variety of pathology, including abnormalities of regional bones, joints, and soft-tissue structures such as tendons. US can assist in determining the specific cause for wrist pain. Conclusion: USG examination can be used as the first line of investigation for a case of wrist pain as it is inexpensive, real time and allows for comparison with the opposite side.