Sonographically guided carpal tunnel injections: the ulnar approach

J Ultrasound Med. 2008 Oct;27(10):1485-90. doi: 10.7863/jum.2008.27.10.1485.

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this report is to describe a new sonographically guided technique for carpal tunnel injections using an ulnar approach.

Methods: Previously published sonographically guided techniques for carpal tunnel injections were reviewed. Described approaches were noted to be technically challenging because of the need to perform long-axis imaging of the carpal tunnel, short-axis (out-of-plane) imaging of the needle, or both.

Results: We developed and herein describe the ulnar approach for sonographically guided carpal tunnel injections. Advantages of this approach include transverse imaging of the carpal tunnel, long-axis (in-plane) imaging of the needle, and versatility in targeting structures within the carpal tunnel.

Conclusions: Clinicians should consider the ulnar-sided approach when performing sonographically guided carpal tunnel injections.

Publication types

  • Meta-Analysis
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones / administration & dosage*
  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome / diagnostic imaging*
  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome / drug therapy*
  • Humans
  • Injections / methods
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Ultrasonography, Interventional / methods*

Substances

  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones