June 12, 2025

Ultrasound of Intersection Syndrome

7 minutes

In this radiology lecture, we review the ultrasound appearance of intersection syndrome, a friction tenosynovitis at the forearm and wrist!

Key teaching points include:

Intersection syndrome is an overuse tenosynovitis (inflammation of tendon and tendon sheath) secondary to repetitive friction at site of intersection

Proximal intersection syndrome: Occurs at musculotendinous junctions of first extensor wrist compartment (extensor pollicis brevis, abductor pollicis longus) crossing tendons of second compartment (extensor carpi radialis brevis, extensor carpi radialis longus). Intersection occurs 4-8 cm proximal to Lister’s tubercle

Results from repetitive extension/flexion activities: Rowing, skiing, racket sports, horseback riding, weight-lifting

Clinical presentation: Radial forearm or wrist pain, worsens with extension/flexion

Ultrasound findings: Pain with transducer pressure at intersection site, peritendinous edema and fluid

Distal intersection syndrome: Less common, occurs at third compartment tendon (extensor pollicis longus) crossing second compartment tendons distal to Lister’s tubercle

Tx: Rest, activity modification, splinting, anti-inflammatory medications. Corticosteroid injection or surgical release may be required if refractory

To learn more about the Samsung RS85 Prestige ultrasound system, please visit: https://www.bostonimaging.com/rs85-prestige-ultrasound-system-4

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This video is for informational purposes only. It does not replace the advice or counsel of a doctor or health care professional.

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By Daniel J. Kowal, MD

4.9

7676 ratings