Journal of ultrasound in medicine : official journal of the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine
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To evaluate the feasibility of ultrasound (US)-guided cervical facet injections and to identify the potential obstacles to routine use of this technique. ⋯ Although US-guided cervical facet joint injections are feasible, substantial obstacles may prevent their routine use. The main obstacle is to effectively identify and target the correct cervical level in a prone position.
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Various therapeutic options are available for treatment of recalcitrant plantar fasciitis. Studies using TOPAZ coblation (ArthroCare, Sunnyvale, CA) have had good early results. ⋯ We describe a novel technique of ultrasound-guided percutaneous coblation with a lateral heel approach. Advantages include precise targeting of the plantar fascia by direct dynamic visualization of the coblation tip, a true percutaneous approach with a needle skin puncture (<5 mm), and preservation of the plantar fat pad by using a lateral heel approach.