Basic appearance of ultrasound structures and pitfalls.

The role of ultrasound in musculoskeletal imaging is expanding as technology advances and clinicians become better educated about its clinical applications. The main use of musculoskeletal ultrasound to physiatrists is to examine the soft tissues of the body and to diagnose pathologic changes. Ultrasound can be used to assist clinicians in performing interventional procedures. However, to successfully integrate this technology into their clinical practices, physicians must be familiar with the normal and abnormal appearance of tissues. They also must recognize the clinically relevant limitations and pitfalls associated with the use of ultrasound. Copyright 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.