Nonoperative Spinal/Paraspinal Ultrasound in Adults

A growing body of literature exists for the ultrasound evaluation of paraspinal muscles as well as spinal ligaments, including but not limited to nuchal, supraspinous, and interspinous ligaments. The AIUM urges investigators to perform properly designed research projects to evaluate the efficacy of spinal/paraspinal ultrasound for these conditions.

 

There is insufficient evidence in the peer-reviewed medical literature establishing the value of nonoperative spinal/paraspinal ultrasound in adults for diagnostic evaluations of conditions involving the intervertebral disks, facet joints and capsules, and central nerves. Therefore, the AIUM states that, at this time, the use of ultrasound in diagnostic evaluations, screening, or monitoring of therapy for these conditions has no proven clinical utility and should be considered investigational. Ultrasound may, however, be used as a guidance modality for certain spinal injections.