Musculoskeletal and soft tissue ultrasound, with Doppler if needed
Musculoskeletal and soft tissue ultrasound in Casablanca
This ultrasound uses ultrasound waves to study the tendons, muscles, ligaments and tissues under the skin, around the shoulder, elbow, wrist, knee or ankle. Without X-rays, it observes the structures in motion. The doctor can precisely target the painful spot you point to and compare it with the healthy side. For the bone itself or certain deep structures, an X-ray or an MRI complements it if needed.
Duration, report and equipment
Duration
Usually allow 15 to 30 minutes per area examined.
Report turnaround
Report within 24 hours. In an emergency, during opening hours, the report is handed over immediately.
Equipment
GE & Hitachi
Contact the center
This exam is booked by phone or WhatsApp.
When is this exam needed?
- Pain suggesting tendinitis or a torn tendon, for example in the shoulder.
- Sprain, muscle tear or hematoma.
- Lump under the skin, cyst or fluid in a joint.
- Swollen joint, with Doppler showing the inflammation.
- Pain in the heel, the Achilles tendon or the sole of the foot.
- Tingling or numbness in the fingers, to study the nerve at the wrist.
How the exam is done
Depending on the area, you sit or lie down with the area uncovered. The doctor applies a gel and moves the probe, sometimes asking you to move the joint or tighten a muscle to see the structures in action. The doctor may press gently on the painful spot, then examine the other side for comparison.
For the shoulder, you usually sit, and the doctor guides you to place your arm in different positions. For the knee or ankle, you usually lie down, with your leg straight and then bent. Doppler, added if needed, is done with the same probe, with no needle. At the end, the gel is wiped off and you leave with no special instructions: you can walk, drive and resume your activities.
Preparation
- Wear clothing that easily uncovers the area, such as a tank top for the shoulder.
- For the knee or ankle, shorts or loose pants that roll up easily are practical.
- If a specific movement triggers the pain, identify it so you can show the doctor.
Fasting
No fasting: you eat normally.
Contrast injection
Nothing is injected during this diagnostic exam.
Contraindications and precautions
- Ultrasound has no contraindication.
- Wound, dressing or cast on the area: tell us; the exam can be adapted.
- Recent injection (infiltration) or anticoagulant medication: tell us, especially if a guided procedure is planned afterwards.
Documents to bring
- Prescription specifying the area or areas to be examined
- Previous X-rays, MRIs or ultrasounds of the same area
- Surgical report if the joint has had surgery
- Insurance or mutual insurance fund card
Price and insurance coverage
The center accepts coverage from insurance companies and the main mutual insurance funds. You submit the coverage request to your insurer or fund yourself. For AtlantaSanad and Sanlam, the center takes care of it.
No prices are shown on this site: Kenza gives you the exact price on WhatsApp, along with the coverage procedure for your situation.
Frequently asked questions
Can ultrasound see the bone?
It shows the surface of the bone, but not the inside. An X-ray is often added, and MRI explores some deep structures better.
Why move during the exam?
Some problems only appear during movement, such as a tendon that catches or shifts. These maneuvers are done gently and stopped if the pain becomes severe.
Can an injection follow?
Yes, if your doctor prescribes it. It is a separate procedure, the ultrasound-guided injection, which requires its own prescription and instructions.
Can several joints be examined?
Yes, if the prescription specifies it. Mention it when you book, because each area takes time.
Ultrasound or MRI for the shoulder or knee?
For the shoulder tendons, ultrasound is often enough. For the inside of the knee, such as the menisci or cruciate ligaments, MRI is more suitable. Your doctor chooses based on the question being asked.
Can a muscle tear be seen?
Yes, ultrasound clearly shows a tear or hematoma in the muscle and makes it possible to follow its healing. The doctor sometimes advises waiting a few days after the injury, to better judge how extensive it is.