Is Microvascular Ultrasound Useful in the Assessment of RA
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Is ultrasound SMI (Superb microvascular imaging) more sensitive than Power Doppler in detecting active synovitis within the hands of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
IRAS ID
246998
Contact name
Antonio Sassano
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University Of West England
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 6 months, 3 days
Research summary
The aim of the study is to investigate the value of ultrasound SMI (Superb microvascular imaging) compared with PD (Power Doppler) for evaluating synovitis within the hands of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
RA is a debilitating chronic condition affecting the joints, connective tissues, muscle and tendons which causes joint swelling, pain, stiffness and deformity. The synovium of the joint reacts in a predictable fashion in an acute inflammatory process displaying hyperaemia, oedema and proliferation (termed synovitis) which is responsible for damage to cartilage and bones (McNally, 2014). .
This innovation warrants investigation as there have been no independent studies in the use of microvascular imaging in this topic area found at the time of writing. Many scan referrals received for an ultrasound assessment question the presence of subclinical synovitis and the outcome has great implications for patients. Medications to treat RA such as Methotrexate have significant adverse side effects meaning that accurate diagnosis is a priority. A project is needed to assess whether this SMI application may affect the sensitivity and specificity of ultrasound in the diagnosis of active synovitis. Could this innovation increase the number of true positive synovitis diagnoses missed by the inadequacy of PD ultrasound? By answering these questions we may be able to use SMI to improve our diagnostic capabilities and subsequent management of rheumatoid disease.
This application is available on an ultrasound machine within the researcher's department and an evaluation to understand its clinical uses would be beneficial to ultrasound practitioners as well as educational as an investigation for a dissertation project. This study will be performed in conjunction with the University of the West of England (UWE) at Morriston Hospital Radiology Department in Swansea.
McNally, E. (2014) Practical Musculoskeletal Ultrasound. 2nd Ed. London: Elsevier Health Sciences.
REC name
North West - Greater Manchester East Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
18/NW/0692
Date of REC Opinion
5 Oct 2018
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion