MSK Diagnostic Ultrasound Service

An ultrasound scan is a diagnostic examination which uses high frequency sound waves to create a black and white image of internal anatomy. It is important to note that an ultrasound scan does not use ionising radiation (like X-rays) and therefore does not cause you any harm.

Your ultrasound scan will be performed by a healthcare professional who has obtained further postgraduate education and training in ultrasound.

You could be advised to have an MSK ultrasound scan by your healthcare practitioner in order to aid in diagnosing disorders / injuries of the musculoskeletal system.

You will not be required to do any preparation before you have your MSK ultrasound scan.

The University of South Wales (USW) MSK Ultrasound Service is part of the education provision within the University. USW is committed to providing the highest quality education. The MSK ultrasound service is part of a ultrasound clinical training programme and therefore a student may be present and involved in the provision of your MSK ultrasound scan. It is important to remember that all MSK ultrasound scans are supervised by a qualified healthcare professional.

Professional bodies continue to state that evidence from current research does not demonstrate any risk factors from MSK ultrasound.

You will have to be referred for the scan by a healthcare practitioner such as a GP, Chiropractor, Osteopath, Physiotherapist or Podiatrist (referral forms can be downloaded from this website). Once the referral form arrives at the WIOC it will reviewed by the operator. The referring clinician should advise the patient to call the WIOC reception on 01443 483555 and make an appointment once they know the WIOC have received the referral form.

If you have to cancel an appointment due to extenuating circumstances, you should notify the WIOC reception staff on 01443 483555 as soon as possible. They can assist you with an alternative date.

You can either ring the clinic on 01443 483555 or you can speak to the sonographer on the day of your appointment.

You should report to the reception staff at the WIOC who will notify the operator of your arrival. They will ask you to take a seat and wait in the waiting area until the operator calls you.

The report will usually be available by the following day and should be received by the referrer within 5 working days.