Image-Guided Musculoskeletal (MSK) Procedures Sydney
Image-Guided Musculoskeletal (MSK) Procedures involve precise injections into joints, tendons, bursae, or soft tissues using ultrasound or CT guidance. These procedures help diagnose the source of pain and deliver targeted treatment for inflammation, arthritis, injury, or degenerative changes. Medicare-eligible MSK injections are fully bulk-billed at Advicon Imaging.
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Description of Image-Guided Musculoskeletal (MSK) Procedures
Image-Guided MSK Procedures use real-time imaging—usually ultrasound or CT—to ensure accurate placement of a fine needle into the exact structure causing symptoms. This maximises treatment effectiveness while reducing discomfort and avoiding injury to surrounding tissues.
MSK injections can deliver:
- Local anaesthetic (for diagnostic testing)
- Corticosteroid (to reduce inflammation and pain)
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) – if clinically offered
- Hyaluronic acid (in some joints, depending on referral)
Common conditions treated include:
- Arthritis in major and minor joints
- Bursitis (hip, shoulder, knee)
- Tendinitis and tendon sheath inflammation
- Frozen shoulder / adhesive capsulitis
- Rotator cuff pain
- Sports injuries
- Plantar fasciitis
- Ganglion cysts
- Soft tissue pain or swelling
Ultrasound guidance is preferred for most soft tissue and superficial joints because it clearly shows tendons, ligaments, bursae, and injecting needles in real time. CT guidance is used when deeper structures require precision, such as in pelvic or spinal-associated MSK regions.
At Advicon Imaging, our radiologists perform MSK injections with modern equipment and patient-focused care. Eligible Medicare-referred procedures are fully bulk-billed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an MSK injection?
It is an injection performed under imaging guidance to treat inflammation or pain in joints, tendons, or soft tissues.
Why has my doctor referred me?
Typical reasons include arthritis, bursitis, tendinitis, sports injuries, or to confirm the source of your pain.
Do I need preparation?
Preparation is simple.
- Inform us if you take blood-thinning medications.
- Avoid heavy exercise on the day of the procedure.
- Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing.
- Tell us about allergies or pregnancy.
Is the procedure painful?
You may feel a brief sting from the anaesthetic, but most patients tolerate the procedure well. Imaging guidance helps minimise discomfort.
Which areas can be injected?
Common sites include:
- Shoulder (bursa, joint, tendon sheath)
- Knee (joint, cyst, bursa)
- Hip (bursa, joint)
- Ankle and foot
- Elbow and wrist
- Tendon sheaths such as Achilles or De Quervain’s
How long does it take?
Most injections take 5–10 minutes. Expect to be at the clinic for around 20 minutes.
How soon will I feel relief?
Some patients feel relief within hours; others may take several days as inflammation settles.
Are there risks?
Risks are low and may include temporary soreness, bleeding, or very rare infection. Image guidance reduces complications.
Can I drive afterward?
Most patients can drive home, but you may prefer arranging transport if the injected area is weight-bearing.
Is the procedure bulk-billed?
Yes. Medicare-eligible MSK injections are fully bulk-billed at Advicon Imaging.
When will my doctor receive the results?
Your doctor will be informed of the procedure details the same day, along with any relevant imaging.