Musculoskeletal Radiology
Cutting-Edge Musculoskeletal Imaging
Musculoskeletal (MSK) imaging is a subspecialty of radiology that provides diagnostic imaging examinations of the bones, ligaments, muscles and joints. Specifically, musculoskeletal radiology is used to diagnose conditions that include arthropathies, metabolic bone disorders, sports injuries, traumatic injuries, stress related injuries, congenital anomalies and tumors. Musculoskeletal radiology examinations include radiographs, ultrasounds, MRIs and CTs; procedures include joint aspiration, joint injections, arthrography and biopsies.
At MCR, we understand that musculoskeletal radiology procedures can be both intimidating and confusing. Our physicians and team are always willing to answer all questions and make the experience as comfortable as possible.
Who Our Musculoskeletal Radiology Experts Work With
MCR’s MSK radiologists are local experts who work closely with orthopedic surgeons, podiatrists, rheumatologists, spine surgeons, as well as general practitioners to provide the best care possible. For example, MCR’s MSK radiologists helped establish a monthly Hampton Roads Orthopedics – Sports Medicine – Radiology Interdisciplinary Conference that brings local providers together to discuss best practices in the realm of Sports Medicine and other orthopedic topics. As the sole Hampton Roads Radiology group teaching Virginia Medical School at Old Dominion University Radiology Residents, we also pass on our subspecialized proficiency in musculoskeletal radiology to the next generation of radiologists.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
MRI uses magnetic force and radio waves to take highly detailed images of the body. It is used in musculoskeletal examinations because of the particular usefulness in evaluating soft tissue structures such as cartilage, muscles, bone marrow, nerves and vessels. Check out RadiologyInfo.com for more general information about the use of MRI in MSK Radiology.
MRI Arthrography
MRI arthrography is a two-step examination that consists of an arthrogram and an MRI exam. Due to its exceptional diagnostic accuracy, it is used to examine the labrum of the hip and shoulder, as well as certain small ligaments, in particular, of the wrist. MRI arthrography is also used for complex cases such as postoperative knee and postoperative shoulder evaluations.
Prior to the MRI exam, we perform an arthrogram, during which a contrast agent is injected into a joint using fluoroscopy for guidance. The contrast allows better visualization of the joint and possible tears of tendons or cartilage on the images produced by the MRI exam. After the contrast has been injected into the joint, our radiologist performs the MRI exam.
Computed Tomography
Computed tomography (CT) examinations are used in musculoskeletal radiology examinations because of their usefulness in evaluating the osseous structures for fractures, healing processes, osseous alignment, infections and bone tumors. They are also particularly helpful in providing three-dimensional image reconstructions that can aid in surgical planning. To help visualize the vascularity of the structures being examined, our team may first administer a contrast agent.
CT Arthrography
Similar to MRI arthrography, CT arthrography is a two-step examination—an arthrogram and a CT examination. It is used because of its ability to produce finely detailed images of the osseous structures. Prior to the CT examination, our team will perform an arthrogram in which a contrast agent (dye) is injected into the joint using fluoroscopy for guidance. After injecting the dye, the CT exam is performed. The exam generates different views of the osseous structures and together with the contrast produces highly detailed images.
Joint Aspiration
Joints like the shoulder, hip and knee contain synovial tissue that produces a lubricant like fluid. Our team performs a musculoskeletal radiology procedure called joint aspiration to remove fluid in order to determine the causes of swelling, such as infection or arthritis. First, we will numb the skin. Next, using fluoroscopy or ultrasound for guidance, our team places a needle into the joint and aspirates (withdraws) the fluid, which is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.
Joint Injection
Our musculoskeletal radiologists may perform joint injection with steroids and analgesics to both confirm the joint as the source of pain and to treat the pain. First, we will numb the skin. Next, using fluoroscopy or ultrasound for guidance, we will place a needle into the joint and inject the medication.
Epidural Steroid Injections
Ablation
We use the only FDA-approved radiofrequency (RF) technology to perform ablation of painful bone lesions, offering relief for metastatic and benign tumors, including osteoid osteomas often found in children. Guided by CT or live X-ray, our radiologist inserts a probe into the bone to apply RF energy, heating and destroying the tumor. This minimally invasive treatment can significantly reduce or eliminate pain and improve quality of life.
Sonography
Several of our radiologists have additional specialty training in musculoskeletal sonography, a type of musculoskeletal radiology examination that enables us to perform diagnostic and interventional ultrasound exams of all joints. These radiologists can evaluate, aspirate or biopsy tumors, cysts and abscesses if needed.
Sonography is a musculoskeletal radiology procedure that is an excellent tool for evaluating various conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, aiding in detection of disease activity and responding to therapy. It can also be used to evaluate the anatomy and function of bones and joints by using direct observation of motion with real-time imaging.
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