Ultrasound Guided Cortisone Injection in London

Should you have an ultrasound-guided cortisone injection? Most doctors perform injections ‘blind.’ This means the doctor must know the anatomy to find the right spot. More commonly, some doctors are performing ultrasound-guided cortisone injections. Why do an ultrasound-guided cortisone injection, who should you get to do it, and how much should it cost in London? 

What Does an Ultrasound-Guided Cortisone Injection Mean?

A guided injection allows the doctor to see the exact spot rather than guessing. There are two ways to see a needle. First, you can use an X-ray. Alternatively, we can use ultrasound. Which one is better? 

X-ray vs. ultrasound: which is better for a guided cortisone injection? 

In most cases, ultrasound is better than X-ray.

First, ultrasound is less expensive. Second, it doesn’t give you harmful radiation. Finally, ultrasound-guided injections are more convenient because they are performed in an office rather than in a hospital. 

Previously, we believed X-rays were superior because they were considered more accurate. However, recent studies suggest that ultrasound is as precise as X-rays. Also, most patients prefer ultrasound. 

Overall, ultrasound seems to have many advantages over X-ray. Even insurance companies like BUPA are now favouring ultrasound over X-ray injections. 

Advantages of an Ultrasound-guided Cortisone Injection

Generally, there are many advantages to an ultrasound-guided injection, including:

• more accuracy 

• less pain for patients 

• improved outcomes

• Fewer side effects 

Additionally, because ultrasound is more accurate, there is a lower risk of injecting into nerves or blood vessels. 

Disadvantages of an ultrasound-guided cortisone injection

Ultrasound injections are not all rosy. There are some disadvantages. First, they are difficult. It takes many years to develop the skills needed to inject safely. Second, they require extra equipment, such as an ultrasound machine and gel. This means there is a potential for contamination if not done correctly. Generally, it is essential that whoever does the injection uses a clean technique. 

What Injections Do We Do with Ultrasound? 

In general, we perform most joint and tendon injections under ultrasound guidance. However, spine injections should be performed under X-ray guidance.

Some examples of injections that we do under ultrasound include:

• Hip joint injection

• Sacroiliac joint injection

• Piriformis injection

• Knee injection 

• Carpal tunnel injection

• Shoulder injection 

• Plantar fascia injection 

• Ankle injection 

• Greater trochanteric pain syndrome

• Nerve injections

Select the area on the body below and explore injection options for your pathology.

So, who should do a cortisone injection under ultrasound?

In the United Kingdom, many practitioners perform ultrasound-guided injections, some more proficient than others. These include specialists, General doctors, physiotherapists, and beauty therapists. As with any procedure, skill level can vary. Generally, specialist doctors get the most training in ultrasound injections.  

It is essential to verify the experience of the person performing your injection. Also, ensure your doctor uses good techniques, including gloves and clean injection packs. 

See the short clip below of a lady having a cortisone injection. This technique uses this minimum standard.

 

Dr Masci’s Experience

Dr Masci performs ultrasound-guided cortisone injections in London for joint and tendon conditions.

He has over 15 years of experience using ultrasound and teaches other doctors how to inject. On average, he performs about 500-1000 injections a year. In addition, Dr Masci has developed an online ultrasound injection course and written scientific papers on ultrasound-guided injections. He is currently developing an advanced ultrasound injection course to train future leaders in this field. Moreover, he speaks at international conferences, including those hosted by the British Medical Ultrasound Society.

Review his self-pay injection rates here.

Final word from Sportdoctorlondon about Ultrasound-guided Cortisone Injection in London

Overall, ultrasound-guided cortisone injections are better. This is because they hit the spot and last longer. However, an ultrasound injection is a complex skill. Therefore, you should see an experienced doctor for your guided cortisone injection.  

Related topics:

• Who should perform ultrasound-guided injections?
• Cortisone injections FAQ
• Platelet-rich plasma injections 
• Hyaluronic acid injections 
• Self-pay fees for ultrasound-guided injections