Radiologists Give Physicians Additional Options, Tools, and Techniques for Diagnosis and Treatment

Following an accident or injury, getting an accurate and timely diagnosis is essential as a patient selects the appropriate treatment and obtains the necessary support. Once a medical provider is selected, it’s equally important for every member of that team to coordinate and collaborate in order to achieve the best possible outcome for the patient. Radiologists are critical partners in this process to help diagnose injuries and ensure a patient gets the best care possible.

Diagnostic imaging, performed by radiologists, can be crucial for identifying or confirming the extent of a patient’s injuries, including traumatic head injuries (TBIs), bone fractures or tissue damage. Using high-tech equipment, a radiologist can pinpoint the site and severity of a medical issue.

X-rays are a relatively affordable type of imaging test that can show bone fractures, soft-tissue calcifications, bone spurs and other issues with the skeletal system.

Ultrasound exams use sound waves to create diagnostic images of superficial soft tissues. They are especially useful for examining tendons, making it the imaging technique of choice for patients with injuries such as tendinitis. Because ultrasound allows for real-time imaging while the body is in motion, radiologists may ask patients to move an affected joint in specific ways during the procedure to best assess their injury’s toll in action.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) tests are ideal for the diagnostic imaging of muscle injuries, joint damage, sprains, fractures and head injuries suffered during athletic activities. An MRI uses radiowaves within a strong magnetic field to create high-resolution images of entire musculoskeletal structures, including bones, tendons, muscles, ligaments and nerves. Some radiology facilities are even equipped to render three-dimensional MRI scans.

Computed Tomography (CT) scans can be helpful in providing a more detailed look at bones or soft tissues, making them ideal for diagnosing fracture lines and other complications within complex joints.

Please check out some of the amazing providers in the Power Liens Preferred Provider network that utilize the best and latest in diagnostic imaging technology to treat their personal injury patients: