The use of musculoskeletal ultrasound by rheumatologists in the United States.

Fewer United States rheumatologists perform or utilize musculoskeletal ultrasound (MSUS) than those in Europe, though this disparity is narrowing. To document perceptions and use of MSUS in the U.S. rheumatology community, we sent an anonymous electronic survey to American College of Rheumatology (ACR) physicians and tailored versions to fellows and program directors. A separately-conducted survey was sent to a smaller group of rheumatologists already utilizing MSUS. Acknowledging survey bias, we found that 20% of rheumatologists and fellows who responded are utilizing MSUS, and those using it primarily do so for diagnosis and injection guidance. Many rheumatologists across the country think that ultrasound should become a standard tool in rheumatology training, practice, and research. Despite an inherent survey bias likely overstating interest in MSUS, this study is valuable as the first to document this trend among U.S. rheumatologists.