THE CURRENT SITUATION OF MUSCULOSKELETAL ULTRASOUND EDUCATION - A SYSTEMATIC LITERATURE REVIEW

ABSTRACT

BackgroundThe use of musculoskeletal ultrasound improves patient care by increasing diagnostic and therapeutic safety. With its growing application and increasing evidence of its value, the demand for standardized training in musculoskeletal ultrasonography (MSUS) rises rapidly.ObjectivesIn this systematic literature review, we aim to provide a general overview of the various aspects of musculoskeletal ultrasound education worldwide, including target groups, teaching staff, didactic methods, and course formats, as well as to reflect on existing problems and future opportunities. No restrictions were made regarding the educational level of the course recipients nor the specialization of the course instructors.MethodsIn our methodological approach, we followed the PRISMA statement for reporting systematic reviews and meta-analyses of studies[1]. In January 2022, the databases Embase, PubMed, and Google Scholar were considered with all publications to date and were filtered for relevant publications using previously defined keywords. Title and were then screened independently by two authors for inclusion using relevant study characteristics determined in advance according to the PICO scheme[1]. Finally relevant information was filtered from the full text version of the sixty-seven included publications.ResultsThe range of training programs has increased greatly in recent years, primarily aiming at residents in rheumatology, radiology and physical medicine and rehabilitation. However, MSUS is also receiving more attention as a training tool for medical students. Due to the COVID pandemic, didactic approaches using distance learning via simulators and handheld devices have gained additional importance. Given the existing lack of sufficient equipment and trained teaching staff, those approaches should continue to be explored post-pandemic. Another still existing problem is the low international comparability of MSUS training and competency assessment. Therefore, several international institutions, including the European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) and the Pan-American League of Associations for Rheumatology (PANLAR) have proposed guidelines for training curricula to promote standardized ultrasound training.ConclusionThere is a broad consensus that the development of standardized curricula improves training and facilitates the implementation of new training centers. The development of alternative teaching methods incorporating e-learning, peer teaching, and distance learning on mobile ultrasound devices and the determination of international guidelines could facilitate overcoming the remaining major obstacles still to be passed.Reference[1]Liberati A, Altman DG, Tetzlaff J, et al. The PRISMA statement for reporting systematic reviews and meta-analyses of studies that evaluate healthcare interventions: explanation and elaboration. BMJ 2009;339b2700. doi10.1136/bmj.b2700AcknowledgementsNIL.Disclosure of InterestsNone Declared.