Rheumatology Musculoskeletal Ultrasound Program
Research Overview
Dr. Ralf Thiele is specifically looking at using high frequency ultrasound, power doppler and 3D ultrasound to identify tophi in gout as well as synovitis and enthesitis in gout, RA and PsA.
Clinical Overview
Ultrasonography is now appreciated as a valuable tool for diagnosis, monitoring, and intervention in Rheumatology. We are routinely using ultrasound in our out-patient clinic for:
- Early detection of erosive disease
- Assessment of synovial tissue, effusions, treatment response and crystal arthropathy
- Detection of enthesitis in seronegative spondyloarthritis
- Needle guidance in aspiration, injection and biopsy