LAUSR

musculoskeletal ultrasound service were analysed within a threemonth time period in 2016 and 2017. 147 referrals were made within a three-month time period from 3 June 2016 to 2 September 2016. 112 referrals were made between 7 April 2017 and 6 July 2017. Two Consultant Rheumatologists carried out and reported the ultrasound scans. Scans were carried out using a GE Logiq E machine. Synovitis was defined as grey scale synovial hypertrophy or tenosynovitis, with or without hyperaemia. Data was collected from both paper and electronic patient records. Results: The most frequent indication for scanning was screening for synovitis which was the same as in 2016. There were 4.0% of patients referred for US guided injections in 2017 compared to 2.1% in 2016. The discharge rate for the rheumatology US service was 10.1% in 2017 compared to 5.0% in 2016. The non-attendance rate was 2.0% in 2017 compared to 3.6% in 2016. 8.5% were anti-CCP positive in 2016 compared to 5.1% in 2017. 17.2% were rheumatoid factor positive which is similar to 17.0% in 2016. 6.1% were dually seropositive in 2017 versus 6.4% in 2016. On reviewing the reports 96.0% used the words synovial hypertrophy versus 91.5% in 2016, the equivalent figures for erosions were 91.9% (82.3% in 2016) and 95.0% for hyperaemia or power Doppler (91.5% in 2016). As a result of the scan, a therapeutic intervention was made for 34.3% in 2017 versus 25.5% in 2016. Conclusion: The patients had a similar serological profile in 2016 and 2017. The indications for scanning were consistent from year to year. The quality of reports improved from 2016 to 2017. The introduction of a new referral and booking system had a positive impact on discharge and non-attendance rates respectively. Disclosures: The authors have declared no conflicts of interest.