Intro To MSK Imaging Flashcards
One needs to be what when selecting modality for imaging?
Judicious (use good judgement)
What is the primary indication for radiograph (X-rays)?
Looking at high density structure such as bone measurements/breaks or foreign objects
What are pros for X rays?
Very fast, cheap, portable (first line)
What are some iodine IV contrast risks?
Processing by the kidneys can cause injury to them
What are some pros for CTs?
Affordable, quick (for traumas), 3D image with good resolution
What are some cons for using CT’s?
Relatively high risk of radiation
If used contrast can damage kidneys
What are some pros for MRI?
No ionizing radiation
Highest regulation, can differentiate soft tissue (i.e. tumors)
What are some cons for MRIs?
Expensive and slow/time consuming
Difficult for claustrophobic patients
Cannot use in pts with metal implants (i.e. cardiac pacemaker, metal holding a fracture)
What are some pros for ultrasound?
Cheap, fast, portable and no ionizing radiation
What are some cons for ultrasound?
Not able to visualize structures behind bone (waves blocked) and bigger anechoic structures (waves scatter)
What is a con for Xrays?
Needs multiple views
What are the indications for fluoroscopy?
Procedures
What are some pros for fluoroscopy?
Live action
What are the indications for digital subtraction angiography (DSA)?
Blood vessels
What are the pros for DSA?
Removes boney structures in the image
What are the indications for a DEXA scan?
Bone density
What are the pros of a DEXA scan?
Standard of care
What are the indications for a CT scan?
Visualizing boney structures that are difficult for a radiograph to see
High resolution can find hard to see fractures
Soft tissue and other organ systems such as abdominal organ, brain and blood vessels
What are the indications for an MRI?
Bone, soft tissue, organs
Best for joint injuries (cartilage, tendons, etc)
What are the indications for ultrasound?
Soft tissue and organs
Quick diagnoses and guide procedures
What are the indications for nuclear medicine?
Common way to monitor cancer as cancerous cells have increased glucose use
What are some pros for nuclear medicine?
Physiology targeting
