Background

Ultrasound is becoming more widely used in pain medicine due to the numerous advantages over conventional radiologic imaging modalities. It is a non-invasive, safe, quick, accessible, and widely used imaging modality with no radiation risks. The growing number of publications and ultrasound-guided interventional pain workshops have aided the spread of ultrasound in pain medicine clinical practice. As a result of using ultrasound in pain medicine, novel interventional pain management techniques have also been defined.

Ultrasound transducers give excellent detailed images of the anatomic structures with multiplanar and real-time, thanks to improving their technology. Examination and interventional treatment can be simultaneously possible with ultrasound guidance. Its capacity to do dynamic examinations makes ultrasound outstanding in the field of pain medicine. The development of ultraportable transducer type ultrasound, which can be used with smartphones or tablets, transformed it into a portable and low-cost tool for bedside use. Ultrasound guidance improves the accuracy and safety of interventional pain procedures.

On the other hand, the learning curve of ultrasonography is steep, and improving skills on sonography in pain medicine needs practice. Just reading medical journals or books is insufficient to get knowledge in interventional pain medicine sonography. Continuing educational experiences are necessary for mastering sonography skills. Ultrasound devices produce a two-dimensional image of three-dimensional structures. This is the most challenging aspect of learning ultrasonography. Ultrasonography is an operator-dependent modality, and knowledge of normal and abnormal sonograms of anatomic structures is necessary.

The main limitations of ultrasonography in pain medicine are decreased resolution with increasing depth and, low bone penetration. The acoustic shadow artifact of the bones reduces the visibility of the needle. The presence of air is another technical limitation while using ultrasonography.

Conclusion

The ultrasound has gained popularity in diagnostic and interventional pain procedures lately. Ultrasound guides the needle during interventional procedures and confirms the spread of the medical solution around the target. Using ultrasound increases interventional pain procedures' success and, decreases complications. Ultrasound allows dynamic examination; with this aspect, it is superior to other imaging modalities.

It should be known that the acquisition of skills to perform procedures takes time. Should not be performed interventional pain procedures without the reach of practical proficiency.