{Reference Type}: Journal Article
{Title}: The power of us: breaking barriers and bridging the gap of ultrasound in rheumatology to empower a new generation.
{Author}: Garcia-Pompermayer MR;Ayton SG;Molina-Collada J;Tamborrini G;Sanchez MED;Luna KS;Elizondo MAG;
{Journal}: Clin Rheumatol
{Volume}: 43
{Issue}: 6
{Year}: 2024 Jun 23
{Factor}: 3.65
{DOI}: 10.1007/s10067-024-06973-w
{Abstract}: <B>OBJECTIVE: </B>This study assesses musculoskeletal ultrasound (MSUS) knowledge, attitudes, and practices among young rheumatologists in Mexico, aiming to identify barriers and facilitators to its clinical use.<BR><B>METHODS: </B>An online survey distributed to a network of young rheumatologists captured demographics, institutional, and personal MSUS information. Multivariable analysis identified factors associated with positive MSUS attitudes.<BR><B>RESULTS: </B>Ninety-six rheumatologists (39.18% national response rate) completed the survey. Of respondents (54.2% females, median age 35.1 years), 81.2% deemed MSUS necessary in clinical rheumatology. The main barriers included limited training access (56.2%) and required training time (54.1%). Lack of scientific evidence was not a major barrier (60.4%). Positive MSUS attitudes were associated with learning from conferences (p = 0.029) and colleagues (p = 0.005), formal (p = 0.043), and in-person training (p = 0.020), MSUS use in practice (p = 0.027), and use by radiologists in their institute (p < 0.001). Interest in learning MSUS (88.5%) was significantly higher in those with positive attitudes (94.4%, p < 0.001). Elastic net analysis identified key drivers, including learning MSUS from conferences, colleagues, and in residency; using MSUS in practice; respondent-performed MSUS; and MSUS use by radiologists. Statistically significant associations were found with using MSUS for synovitis/inflammatory joint disease (OR = 1.43, 95% CI 1.00-2.05) and MSUS use by radiologists in respondent's institutes (OR = 1.70, 95% CI 1.20-2.90).<BR><B>CONCLUSIONS: </B>Most young rheumatologists in Mexico recognize the necessity of MSUS in clinical practice. By addressing identified barriers, encouraging rheumatologist-radiologist collaboration, and establishing a regulatory body to certify rheumatologist's MSUS experience, there is an opportunity to empower them with the necessary skills for effective MSUS use, ultimately benefiting patient care.