Ultrasound tutorial – Imaging of the deltoid ligament
Deltoid Ligament Ultrasound – Technique and Findings
Positioning
- Lateral decubitus
Ultrasound probe for the Deltoid
- Hockey stick probe
- Easiest to position
- Good resolution
- High frequency linear probe
- Larger field of view
- Sometimes difficult to position optimally
Normal Appearance
- Consistent thickness
- Fascicular architecture with areas of the increased echogenicity (fat interspersed in the ligament)
Pathology
- Sprain
- Hypoechoic
- Thickened
- Loss of fascicular architecture
- Tear
- Partial/full thickness
- Fluid (anechoic) extends into the tear
- Partial/full thickness