Rheumatology ultrasound service

We can examine your joints and the surrounding soft tissues using high-resolution ultrasound. We're able to see inflammation and damage that's not visible from outside of the body, or by using a standard x-ray. Any inflammation is graded using standardised scores to help our consultants to make a diagnosis. 

We use types of ultrasound that allow us to get 2D images of tissues (B-mode ultrasound) and to measure blood flow in tissues (power doppler ultrasound). 

Please note: Ultrasound is used in many fields of medicine, for example to examine organs or to monitor the developing child during pregnancy. It doesn't pose any health risks as it doesn't use radiation.