Suffolk Community Healthcare has invested in a SonoSite NanoMaxx hand-carried ultrasound system for its biomechanics clinic in Ipswich.
The centre specialises in the treatment of chronic problems such as plantar fascilitis, a painful inflammatory condition affecting the foot. However, until now, the service has relied purely on clinical assessment, referring patients back to their GPs if an X-ray or diagnostic ultrasound is required.
Biomechanics specialist, Tina Belsom, said: “The NanoMaxx will enable us to perform diagnostic ultrasound within the clinic, saving time and resources within the NHS and eliminating any delay in confirmation of the diagnosis.”
She added: “I regularly send patients for diagnostic ultrasound of posterior tibial tendon dysfunction and it will be great to be able to look for tears myself instead of making a referral. Patient compliance with treatment may also improve as we will be able to explain the problem visually, making it easier to understand.”
She said the equipment would also be used in the diabetes clinic and will be moved between Ipswich and a similar service in Newmarket as needed.