Musculoskeletal
While musculoskeletal imaging isn’t new, today’s powerful, versatile technologies have provided a new level of sophistication and accuracy in the diagnosis of problems related to muscles, bones, joints and supporting soft tissue. This sophistication and the complexities involved make subspecialty expertise a vital part of an accurate and complete diagnosis.
At Valley Radiologists, we combine comprehensive capabilities and modalities with musculoskeletal imaging subspecialty training, know-how and skill. As a result, Valley Radiologists offer the complete range of musculoskeletal radiology exams, use the most advanced techniques and have the training and focused experience to deliver the consistently reliable diagnoses on which you depend.
Comprehensive Capabilities in Sports & Musculoskeletal Radiology
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
- Computed Tomography (CT)
- Musculoskeletal Ultrasound
- Bone Mineral Density Testing (DXA)
- Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography (PET/CT)
- Musculoskeletal Intervention
- Download more information on musculoskeletal imaging
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
In sports and musculoskeletal applications, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is most often used to evaluate trauma, sports-related injuries, inflammatory conditions and degenerative disorders. In addition to its usefulness for imaging the knee, shoulder and spine, MRI is beneficial for evaluating the hips and small joints, such as the hand, wrist, elbow and ankle. Other uses include the assessment of ligament and tendon injuries, stress fractures, avulsion injuries, tumors and systemic diseases. Using a contrast agent to enhance images, MR arthrography helps us evaluate unexplained joint pain and postoperative knee and shoulder problems or as a follow-up to other imaging studies. MR arthrography aids in the evaluation of the ligaments of the wrist and is especially helpful for evaluating labral injuries of the hip and shoulder joints.
Computed Tomography (CT)
Multidetector CT (MDCT) is especially effective for examining the skeletal system. It provides extremely detailed high-resolution cross-sectional images of most internal structures. MDCT enables us to examine fractures in bones that are hidden from view using simple radiography and to evaluate some soft-tissue abnormalities related to musculoskeletal complaints. Subtle fractures, particularly in small joints like the wrist, are more visible with MDCT and 3-D rendering. It creates an extremely high-resolution three-dimensional visualization of the bone surface and internal structures. Volume-rendered images provide 3-D visualization of complex fractures, including the complex spatial relationships between bone fragments. The resulting images can be cropped and rotated to show anatomy, which is sometimes not even possible during surgical intervention.
MDCT also benefits postoperative imaging in patients with orthopedic hardware. It makes it possible to see the 3-D relationships between internal hardware, joint surfaces, bones and bone fragments. To evaluate internal joint structure, CT arthrography is ideal for patients who are unable to undergo MRI.
Musculoskeletal Ultrasound
Ultrasound is an important part of the diagnostic toolkit for musculoskeletal disorders. Because it provides results in “real time,” ultrasound allows our musculoskeletal specialists to evaluate muscles, tendons, ligaments and other soft tissues dynamically. This means we can assess the structures as a system while they are being used or while the body is moving. With ultrasound, we can evaluate infection, inflammatory processes, soft-tissue masses and tendon tears, particularly in the ankles, fingers, knees and elbows. Ultrasound is also excellent for examining the soft tissue and fluids that surround the joints.
Bone Mineral Density Testing (DXA)
Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry quickly, painlessly and accurately measures the strength, density and mineral content of bone. DXA is the standard method for identifying patients with or at risk for osteoporosis and related fractures. Patients at risk for osteoporosis because of age, medication or previous fractures should obtain a DXA scan to determine the need for treatment to prevent further bone loss. DXA is also the method of choice for monitoring treatment and disease progression.
Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography (PET/CT)
Positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) is used to identify certain medical problems early, when treatment can be most effective. PET/CT scanning can identify fractures, tumors and diseases of the skeletal system. Its greatest strengths include providing early information about injury sites and evaluating large areas, even the entire body, in a single exam. This is particularly well-suited for patients at risk for cancer that spreads to the bone or to monitor therapy for bone cancer.
Musculoskeletal Intervention
As the area’s most complete, full-service interventional radiology provider, Valley Radiologists perform the full range of imaging-guided musculoskeletal interventions. These include biopsy, joint aspiration, discography, arthrography, facet injections, nerve-root injections and other procedures.
Continuing our tradition of excellence with subspecialized musculoskeletal diagnoses
Musculoskeletal radiology and sports medicine imaging are two of the areas in which Valley Radiologists continue their 40-plus-year tradition of clinical excellence and patient-focused care. In addition to having all the modern modalities, our board-certified radiologists combine subspecialty training and experience with a heartfelt dedication to providing the highest standard of care.
Click here to download more information on Musculoskeletal Imaging at Valley Radiologists or our other subspecialized imaging programs. Or if you wish to refer a patient, please call 623-847-2000.
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