Ultrasound of the foot and ankle: Sonographic anatomy and scanning protocol

In this hands-on instructional webinar, Dr. Jon A. Jacobson demonstrates a comprehensive, protocol-driven approach to ultrasound of the foot and ankle using Samsung equipment. The session is structured anatomically, beginning at the anterior ankle, progressing through medial, lateral, and posterior views, and concluding with the calf and forefoot.

Dr. Jacobson emphasizes the value of using built-in protocol systems like Samsung’s EzExam to streamline scanning steps and label anatomical structures in real time. Starting with the anterior ankle, he uses a sagittal plane to identify key landmarks such as the tibia, talus, and tibial-talar joint, highlighting hyaline cartilage and guiding needle placement for joint injections.

He then transitions to scanning anterior ankle tendons in short and long axis views, including the tibialis anterior, extensor hallucis longus, extensor digitorum longus, and dorsalis pedis artery. Detailed scanning techniques for proper identification and differentiation of tendons and muscle bellies are discussed to avoid misdiagnoses such as tenosynovitis.

The webinar continues with techniques for detecting small joint effusions, tracking tendons distally, and identifying deeper joint spaces such as the talonavicular joint. Dr. Jacobson provides commentary on anatomical variation, clinical relevance of sonographic findings, and best practices for image optimization.

This session is ideal for clinicians performing musculoskeletal ultrasound who want to enhance accuracy and efficiency in scanning the complex structures of the foot and ankle. Real-time imaging guidance, clinical tips, and anatomical orientation make this a valuable reference for both diagnostic and interventional MSK applications.

For more on advanced MSK imaging, explore the workflow guide on S-Shearwave™ with the RS85 Prestige .