MRI is a diagnostic test that depicts both soft tissue and bone. The denser the tissue, (bone versus fat) the fewer the X-rays that pass through it. X-rays demonstrate body structures proportionally with their density. The image demonstrates the body structures and is called a radiograph or X-ray image. Sometimes, to make certain organs stand out in the picture, patients are given barium sulfate or a dye. Less dense soft tissues and breaks in bone let radiation pass through, making these parts look darker on the X-ray film. "Although patients may sometimes arrive at an appointment without X-rays, explaining that their doctor said, 'they were normal,' there is still a wealth of information to be learned from an X-ray."īones, tumors and other dense matter appear white or light because they absorb the radiation. The level of radiation exposure from X-rays is not harmful, but the doctor will take special precautions when pregnancy is possible. An X-ray machine emits electromagnetic waves (radiation) that go through the body and expose film to show the body’s internal makeup. A radiologic technologist (RT) uses non-visible X-rays (shorter wavelength) to create an image similar to a photographer using visible light. An X-ray is similar to having a photograph taken in a portrait studio. X-rays (radiographs) are the most universal and often used diagnostic imaging technique. "My hip makes a snapping sound." Patients may undergo some of the following tests: Approximately 200,000 musculoskeletal imaging examinations are performed annually (including MRI, Computed Tomography (CT) and Ultrasound, of which approximately 132,500 are conventional radiography (X-ray) and interventional procedures. The HSS Radiology & Imaging group is nationally and internationally recognized as the premier center for leading-edge, musculoskeletal, orthopedic, rheumatologic, clinical, and research imaging. "I have recurring groin pain." TestingĪlthough patients may have undergone tests prior to arriving at HSS, additional tests using the our advanced equipment may reveal conditions or problems previously unseen. If the pain is not relieved, then the pain is coming from outside the hip joint and further examination is necessary. Once this is established, proper imaging can be performed to better understand how to provide relief. If the pain is coming from the hip joint, the injection provides the patient with pain relief and confirms the diagnosis of hip pain. To accomplish this, the hip can be injected with a steroid analgesic. Sometimes it is necessary to find a way to differentiate pain radiating from the hip joint and pain radiating from the lower abdomen. An MRI can reveal fraying or tears of the cartilage and labrum. An X-ray can reveal an excess of bone on the femoral head or neck and the acetabular rim. Medical imaging, including X-rays and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), is crucial in diagnosing hip pain. "What is causing my hip pain?" Assessing Hip Abnormalities The doctor will also check the internal and external rotation of the patient’s hips, look for leg length discrepancies, test muscle strength in the hip, and test range of motion in the back. Next, the range of motion of a patient’s hip will be examined to learn whether the problem causing hip pain is coming from the spine, if there is bursitis in the great trochanter, or if iliotibial band tightness is present. The Physical Hip Examĭuring the physical examination, performed by a Service physician, a patient’s gait, or the way a patient walks, will be evaluated. The skilled staff members at the Hip Preservation Service help patients and families understand their hip pain and all of the treatment options available. Delays in diagnosis add to medical cost and may considerably effect treatment and ultimate patient outcome. Without an official reading by an experienced radiologist, subtle X-ray findings (e.g., tears, infections, systematic diseases, tumors, etc.) may remain undetected until such time as an abnormality has progressed to the point where a non-imaging specialist may identify it. Both a physical examination and radiological examinations are conducted to diagnose hip joint pain. The advanced hip pain tests available at HSS assist our specialists in making the right diagnosis and pursuing the right treatment. Specialization and unmatched experience are the hallmarks of the Hip Preservation Service medical staff. The right hip pain diagnosis is essential to obtaining the right care. "The right imaging and analysis is vital to determining a proper hip pain treatment."
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |