Expert knee ultrasound imaging for patellar tendinopathy, Baker's cyst, collateral ligament injuries, and periarticular soft tissue pathology. CQC-registered Harley Street clinic, same-day appointments, no GP referral required.
Instant verbal results. Written report within 24 hours.
Musculoskeletal (MSK) ultrasound provides real-time, high-resolution imaging of joints, tendons, ligaments, and soft tissue. Unlike MRI, it allows dynamic assessment — structures can be examined in motion, both sides compared simultaneously, and the sonographer can provide immediate verbal feedback during the examination.
At Sonoworld, all MSK scans are performed by HCPC-registered consultant sonographers with specialist musculoskeletal expertise, using high-resolution GE ultrasound equipment. No GP referral is required, and a comprehensive written report is delivered within 24 hours.
Our consultant sonographers perform a systematic assessment of all relevant structures. Here is what is included in your examination.
Assessment of the patellar tendon and quadriceps tendon for tendinopathy, partial tears, and enthesopathy at the tibial tuberosity and patella. Commonly affected in runners and jumping athletes.
Evaluation of the medial and lateral collateral ligaments for sprains and tears. The periarticular soft tissues including the iliotibial band, pes anserine bursa, and prepatellar bursa are also assessed.
Assessment of the popliteal fossa for Baker's cyst (popliteal cyst), joint effusion, and posterior knee soft tissue masses. Baker's cysts are a common cause of posterior knee pain and swelling.
No preparation is required for a knee ultrasound scan. Wear or bring shorts or loose trousers that can be rolled above the knee. You may be asked to bend and extend the knee during the scan for dynamic assessment.
Arrive at our Harley Street clinic. Our team will take a brief clinical history, including your symptoms, duration, and any previous investigations or treatment.
Gel is applied to the skin and your consultant sonographer scans the affected area using a high-resolution probe. You may be asked to move the joint during the scan for dynamic assessment.
Your sonographer explains their findings immediately after the scan, answering any questions about what was seen and what it means for your management.
A comprehensive written report is emailed to you within 24 hours. You may share this directly with your GP, physiotherapist, or specialist.
View all MSK scan types on the MSK Ultrasound Scans Hub.
A knee ultrasound scan provides detailed imaging of the patellar tendon, quadriceps tendon, collateral ligaments, Baker's cyst, bursae, and periarticular soft tissues. It does not assess the menisci or cruciate ligaments — MRI is required for these structures.
Ultrasound has limited ability to assess the menisci, as they are partially obscured by bone. MRI is the preferred modality for meniscal assessment. However, ultrasound is excellent for assessing tendons, ligaments, bursae, and Baker's cysts.
No. At Sonoworld, you can self-refer directly without a GP referral. Simply book online or call our team.
The scan typically takes 20–30 minutes. Your sonographer will provide immediate verbal feedback, and a written report will be emailed within 24 hours.
A Baker's cyst is a fluid-filled sac at the back of the knee, often associated with joint effusion or meniscal pathology. Ultrasound is the gold-standard investigation and can confirm the diagnosis, measure the cyst, and assess for complications such as rupture.
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If imaging confirms inflammation or soft-tissue injury, Sonoworld also offers ultrasound-guided cortisone injection for knee pain — a precise, same-day treatment performed under real-time ultrasound guidance.
If your knee scan reveals inflammation or a painful soft tissue condition, you may benefit from an ultrasound-guided cortisone injection for knee pain at Sonoworld. Our precision-guided injections are performed under real-time ultrasound imaging for accurate placement and faster relief.
