Introduction to Musculoskeletal Imaging

Abstract

The assessment and management of a patient with a musculoskeletal condition begin with a thorough history and physical examination. In some cases, clinical laboratory information may be helpful, and in others, neurophysiologic studies may be of value. In many cases, however, the information gained from diagnostic imaging studies is indispensable and may be central to defining the condition. Modern diagnostic imaging includes many modalities, each with its own attributes and sensitivity and specificity. Conventional radiography, computed tomography, ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging, nuclear medicine, and, on occasion, vascular imaging and interventional radiology may all have a place in musculoskeletal imaging. The selection of an imaging modality depends fundamentally on the clinical question to be answered. Imaging can be expensive and, for some modalities, is not without risk, so the selection of a modality that is safe and most likely to address the clinical concern will result in a cost-effective imaging evaluation. In most cases imaging begins with conventional radiography, and, in many cases, radiography may satisfy the imaging need. In other cases, further imaging is needed for complete characterization of the process at hand.