|
The Peripheral Nerve and Muscle Ultrasound courses present a brief introduction to basic principles of ultrasound technology and physics. Experience has indicated that this broad topic is best integrated in with hands-on demonstrations of technique and case interpretation. It is in real-time use of the instrument that the practitioner recognizes the importance of this type of basic knowledge and it is in this context that they can apply this knowledge to troubleshoot difficult imaging cases, identify artifacts, and improve resolution at the bedside. Subsequent lectures in this course will focus on applications in muscle disease, peripheral and cranial nerve imaging, and an introduction to the use of ultrasound in evaluating musculoskeletal disorders. The afternoon sessions are designed to provide a mix of demonstrations by experts and hands-on experience for the participants to apply their learning. It also uses a small group format to facilitate questions and answers, and tailoring of the educational experience to meet the specific needs of individual participants. |
|
At the conclusion of this continuing medical education activity, the participant should be better able to:
· Define basic terms of ultrasound imaging including anisotropy, m-mode imaging, b-mode imaging, time gain compensation, shadowing, enhanced through-transmission, and beam width artifact and be able to demonstrate application of these principles while imaging neuromuscular structures.
· Identify upper extremity, lower extremity, and cranial musculature, and the visible boundaries that distinguish muscle groups in these areas.
· Recognize loss of heterogeneity, fasciculations, hyperechoic changes, hypertrophy and other common pathologic changes in affected human muscles.
· Identify the full extent of median, radial, and ulnar nerves in the upper extremity, and areas of the sural, peroneal and tibial nerves in the lower extremity, and to recognize common anatomic variants and pathologic abnormalities of these nerves.
· Discuss indications for appropriate use of ultrasound imaging, factors that could complicate interpretation, and clinical situations where ultrasound imaging is particularly contributory to addressing clinical problems. |