PURPOSE: To evaluate the value of ultrasonography in the diagnosis of swelling and lesions of the sternoclavicular joint (SCG). MATERIAL AND METHODS: We analysed the sonograms of 20 SCG of 18 patients with pain and swelling of the SCG. Ultrasonography was performed just after the clinical examination, using a 7.5 MHz linear scanner. RESULTS: All examinations of the SCG produced distinct and clear sonographical findings. We showed that luxations of the SCG as well as tumors and local inflammation can be identified. CONCLUSION: Ultrasonographic examination is a noninvasive, time sparing and economical diagnostic tool for clarifying the differential diagnosis of lesions of the SCG and establish may a therapy regimen.
PURPOSE: To evaluate the value of ultrasonography in the diagnosis of swelling and lesions of the sternoclavicular joint (SCG). MATERIAL AND METHODS: We analysed the sonograms of 20 SCG of 18 patients with pain and swelling of the SCG. Ultrasonography was performed just after the clinical examination, using a 7.5 MHz linear scanner. RESULTS: All examinations of the SCG produced distinct and clear sonographical findings. We showed that luxations of the SCG as well as tumors and local inflammation can be identified. CONCLUSION: Ultrasonographic examination is a noninvasive, time sparing and economical diagnostic tool for clarifying the differential diagnosis of lesions of the SCG and establish may a therapy regimen.