A GLOBE-TROTTING radiologist from East Lancashire Hospitals has become one of only three people in the country to get a prestigious diploma in musculoskeletal radiology.

Shah Khan worked for five years to get the Diploma of the European Society of Musculoskeletal Radiology.

The consultant radiologist’s studies took him to hospitals in America, Canada, Belgium, Turkey, Germany and Ireland and he also visited the European Society’s centre in Oxford.

Musculoskeletal radiology deals with the body’s muscles, joints, tendons, ligaments and tendons.

Medical problems can include back pain, joint injuries and repetitive strain injury.

Mr Khan said: “I am very pleased to be able to say that by completing this diploma I can improve the level of care offered to my patients.

“The skills I have picked up now mean I can use ultrasound more, which can diagnose conditions quicker, without the need for unnecessary radiology, which can harm patients if used too often.

“Interventional techniques for conditions such as calcification of the shoulder can now be treated using a simple dry-needle technique, instead of the patient having to undergo invasive and painful surgery.

“Often these procedures can be done as an outpatient case, which avoids unnecessary stays in hospital.

“The learning and experience I have gained now means I can focus on the finer details of a patient’s symptoms, as often conditions can mimic many other things, to ensure they are receiving the most appropriate treatment.

“My colleagues are very proud of me and I am very proud of this honour.”

Mr Khan, who has worked at East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust for six years, previously won the European Society first prize for best scientific research into hand tumours in 2005.

Diane Whittingham, the trust’s chief executive, said: “I would like to congratulate Mr Khan on his fantastic achievement.

“It is excellent to see how professional development such as this can fundamentally improve the patient experience through quicker diagnosis and the avoidance of painful surgery.

“We are extremely proud to have this kind of world-class expertise here in East Lancashire.”