Musculoskeletal (MSK) Ultrasound
Musculoskeletal (MSK) Ultrasound For Your Pet | Townsend Vet Albury
Musculoskeletal (MSK) Imaging is a specialized ultrasound technique used to visualize muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Townsend Vet Albury uses it to diagnose soft tissue injuries and lameness that do not show up on standard X-rays.
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Musculoskeletal (MSK) Ultrasound FAQs
Just a few common questions about Musculoskeletal (MSK) Ultrasound. If there is something else you need to know just ask in the Contact Us form below!
Is an MSK better than an MRI?
MRI is considered the “gold standard” for soft tissue, but it requires general anesthesia, is very expensive, and often requires travel to a specialist centre. MSK Ultrasound is a fantastic first step. It is accessible, affordable, and often provides the answer we need to start treatment immediately without the need for an MRI.
Can you see a torn cruciate (ACL) with this?
While we usually diagnose cruciate ruptures by feeling the knee (the “drawer test”) and looking for fluid on X-rays, ultrasound can help us look at the meniscus (the cartilage pad) inside the knee to see if it is torn, which helps us plan the surgery.
Does an MSK hurt?
The ultrasound probe itself is painless. However, because we are often pressing on an injured area, there might be some mild discomfort, which is why we take great care to use pain relief or sedation if needed.
How long does an MSK take?
An MSK scan is very detailed and can take anywhere from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on the complexity of the joint we are looking at.