Power Doppler ultrasonography for assessment of rheumatoid synovitis: comparison with dynamic magnetic resonance imaging

PurposeThe aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of power Doppler ultrasonography (PDUS) with that of dynamic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for detecting active synovitis in the hands of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients.Materials and MethodsPDUS and dynamic MRI were performed for a total of 220 finger joints with active RA. Each synovial blood flow by PDUS and dynamic MRI was measured and categorized into four grades.ResultsTaking dynamic MRI as a reference, PDUS showed a sensitivity of 94%, a specificity of 95%, and an accuracy of 95%.ConclusionPDUS is useful for detection of active synovitis in the overall-grade RA patients.