The New Frontier

by Howard Rosenbaum, DPM
President, HSR Consulting, LLC
 

Dr. Rosenbaum presents a course on Diagnostic Ultrasound of the Foot and Ankle.  He begins with the basic principles and physics of the B-Mode imaging modality and defines the applicable terminology.  The Wound-Mapping Ultrasound Assessment Method is mentioned as a new indication for using diagnostic ultrasound to objectively measure and evaluate the extent of wounds.  The course reviews the function and variety of essential equipment components and the Hydro-Step standoff.  Emphasis is placed upon understanding the orientation of the images viewed.  Podiatric applications are listed and discussed in detail including plantar fasciitis, plantar fascia tears, intermetatarsal neuroma, foreign body, ganglion cyst, Achilles tendonitis, Achilles tendon tears, fibroma, capsulitis, bursitis, gouty arthritis, degenerative joint disease with exostosis, metatarsal stress fracture, hematoma, Posterior Tibial tendon, and the tarsal tunnel.  A description of normal and abnormal images of tendon, ligament, and nerve is provided.  Proper probe placement is demonstrated for many examples of podiatric examination.  CPT codes are also included.  It is important to note that all of the Podiatric Medical Colleges have begun to incorporate Diagnostic Ultrasound into their curriculum.