Pediatric musculoskeletal (MSK) ultrasound is a safe, effective, and painless approach to observing bones, ligaments, tendons, and other tissues in and around joints. At Scottish Rite for Children, ultrasound has been used for many years by our radiologists and ultrasound technologists when diagnosing infantile hip dysplasia and other conditions; however, the possibilities and indications to use ultrasound for other musculoskeletal conditions are increasing. This includes using it with young athletes to better visualize the structure and function of these different tissues.
Many soft tissue conditions and concerns on the surfaces of bones can be diagnosed with ultrasound. Because children have immature bones with areas of soft cartilage, they have unique conditions around the bones and joints that can also be evaluated with ultrasound. Additionally, providing treatments with needles, such as joint aspirations and injections, can be enhanced when ultrasound is available.
In two specific areas of our organization, ultrasound is used by providers at the bedside during an evaluation or procedure. This is called point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) and is a way to combine the clinical history and exam with the findings of the ultrasound. For a provider to use this tool, extensive training and many hours of experience are necessary. Pediatric rheumatology nurse practitioner Heather Benham, D.N.P., APRN, CPNP-PC, and sports medicine physician Jacob C. Jones, M.D., RMSK, have met and exceeded those qualifications.
With their extensive experience, they are also equipped to teach others how to use this tool with a younger population. Many programs available are focused on the assessment of soft tissues in a population that is older. Benham and Jones worked together to create the Scottish Rite for Children Pediatric Musculoskeletal Ultrasound Fundamentals Course (PMSKUS). Along with course co-director Vivek Kalia, M.D., M.P.H., M.S., they hosted the inaugural event in November 2022. The next opportunity to take this one-day course will be in May 2023 at the Scottish Rite for Children Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center in Frisco.
