An orthopaedic doctor uses an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) to get detailed images of bones, joints, soft tissues, muscles, ligaments, and tendons. MRI is especially helpful in diagnosing a variety of musculoskeletal conditions, as it provides high-resolution, non-invasive images without the need for radiation.
Here’s how they typically use MRI:
1. Diagnosing Injuries: If a patient experiences joint pain, muscle strains, ligament tears, or fractures, an MRI can reveal the extent of damage. For example, an MRI is often used to assess rotator cuff tears, ACL injuries, or cartilage damage in the knee or hip.
2. Evaluating Soft Tissues: Unlike X-rays, which mainly show bones, MRI is excellent for visualizing soft tissues like cartilage, tendons, and ligaments. This is crucial for identifying issues like tendonitis, tears, or herniated discs in the spine.
3. Pre-Surgical Planning: MRI can help orthopedic surgeons understand the extent and exact location of a problem, aiding in surgical decision-making. For example, if surgery is needed to repair torn cartilage or ligaments, an MRI can provide the most accurate view of the injury.
4. Monitoring Healing: After an injury or surgery, MRI can be used to monitor the healing process of soft tissues or bones. This helps in assessing whether the healing is progressing as expected or if further intervention is necessary.
5. Identifying Degenerative Conditions: Orthopedic doctors use MRI to assess degenerative conditions like osteoarthritis or spinal disc degeneration, as the images can show joint space narrowing, bone spurs, or damaged cartilage.
In essence, MRI is a critical tool that helps our orthopaedic doctors accurately diagnose and treat musculoskeletal issues.
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