Suspected intra-articular soft-tissue tumours and tumour-like lesions: Performance of image-guided core needle biopsy

Image-guided synovial biopsy with a focus on neoplastic lesions

Image-guided synovial biopsy is generally a safe, well-tolerated procedure, with a high diagnostic yield. Percutaneous biopsy is indicated for synovial tumours visible on imaging studies where a definitive diagnosis is not possible on imaging grounds alone and/or when a definite diagnosis is necessary prior to initiating long-term treatment. Synovial biopsy for suspected synovial tumour differs from the technique used for joint aspiration, where the most convenient path between the skin and joint is usually chosen and, also, to a lesser degree, to that used for non-tumoural synovial biopsy. During synovial biopsy for tumour, the needle path should be aligned so that it passes along the length of the synovial tumour, including for suspected malignant tumours, the planned resection plane whenever possible. This review outlines the approach to image-guided biopsy of joint synovial tumours.

The Emerging Era of Interventional Imaging in Rheumatology: An Overview During the Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) Pandemic

Imaging has long been taking its place in the diagnosis, monitor, and prognosis of rheumatic diseases. It plays a vital role in the appraisal of treatment. Key progress in the clinical practice of rheumatology is the innovation of advanced imaging modalities; such as musculoskeletal ultrasound (MSUS), computerized tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). These modalities introduced a promising noninvasive method for visualizing bone and soft tissues to enable an improved diagnosis. The use of MSUS in rheumatology is considered a landmark in the evolution of the specialty and its ease of use and many applications in rheumatic diseases make it a forerunner instrument in the practice. The use of MSUS among rheumatologists must parallel the development rate of the excellence revealed in the specialty. Moreover, innovative interventional imaging in rheumatology (III-R) is gaining fame and key roles in the near future for a comprehensive management of rheumatic diseases with precision. This review article throws light on the emergence of these robust innovations that may reshape the guidelines and practice in rheumatology, in particular, efforts to enhance best practice during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic are endorsed.