The Clinician’s Point of View

Abstract

In this chapter the role of musculoskeletal radiology in the diagnosis and management of sports injuries is discussed. The use of imaging techniques is an important tool for the sports physician to establish the correct diagnosis and to choose the appropriate treatment procedures. In addition, imaging techniques can be useful for the evaluation and monitoring of the healing process and the early identification of complications. Good communication between the radiologist and the sports physician is essential. The information the sports physician provides to the radiologist regarding the history of injury, athlete’s training program, and physical examination will help the radiologist choose the correct imaging technique. The sports physician should also share his/her knowledge of the special demands of the sport involved and the effects that this has on the musculoskeletal system of the athlete. The radiologist should have a subspecialization in musculoskeletal radiology, preferably sports radiology. The department should be flexible enough to examine an athlete within 24 h to 5 days, if warranted. Detailed feedback from the radiologist to the sports physician will help the latter to make the correct interpretation of any abnormalities and direct him/her towards the appropriate form of treatment. There is a risk of over-imaging, including finding nonsignificant abnormalities, imaging findings with no direct relation with clinical symptoms or different reports. The travelling athlete is an extra challenge, which can be reduced by having the athlete carry their own files, having an electronic database or sending the information electronically. It is only as a result of teamwork between the sports physician and the radiologist that an optimal outcome can be achieved.