Radiographs - need to re-format since import from StudyBlue Flashcards
(111 cards)
Why is it important for us to know how to interpret radiographs?
“If you’re incapable of interpreting x-rays, you’re incapable of evaluating orthopedic functional impairment.” T.R. Miller, MD
Dr. Davies put this on a slide
Radiograph
an x-ray. Use this term when talking to medical professionals, use x-ray when talking to patients
What is attenuation when referring to a radiograph?
The degree to which x-rays are absorbed/deflected by the body part.
plain film radiograph
- x-ray
- The most common diagnostic radiograph format
- no contrast material
What are the types of Radiology/Imaging?
- plain flim
- Radiographs
- Bone Scan
- Ultrasound
- CT
- MRI/MRAs
Four Types of Radiographic Densities
- Gas (Air)
- Fat
- Water
- Bone
The greater the density of the anatomy, _______ the absorption of x-rays.
And Does the denser part of the anatomy look darker or lighter?
Greater
It looks lighter
List 6 types of material that show on an x-ray on a continuum from radiolucent to radiopaque.
- Gas (Air)
- Fat
- Water
- Bone
- Contrast Media
- Heavy Metal
What is the “fat pad sign?”
a sign of joint swelling causing increased opacity of adipose tissue
What are the factors that Affect Image Quality (5)?
- Thickness of tissue
- Motion
- Scatter
- Magnification
- Distortion
What are two variations on plain films?
- Fluoroscopy
- Tomography
Tomography
Any of several techniques for making detailed x-rays of a predetermined plane section of a solid object while blurring out the images of other planes.
Fluoroscopy
A special radiographic diagnostic method in which a “live view” of the internal anatomy is possible.
what is the most common diagnostic radiograph format?
plain films/radiographs
What to look for when viewing a radiograph? (4 basic categories)
- Correct patient
- Orient to correct side-patient position (looking at patient)
- Adequate film
- Systematic Scanning
What things do you consider when checking for adequate film when looking at a radiograph? (3)
- Are structures visualized?
- Were correct views taken?
- is the density of the structures normal?
What things do you consider when systematically scanning a radiograph? (8)
- General Appearance
- Periosteum and cortex
- joints
- normal, anatomic curves
- fracture lines
- Long bones: general appearance
- Long bones: Fracture extended into the joint space?
- Long Bones: Epiphyseal injuries (Salter-harris fracture classification)
What are the radiograph interpretation ABCS?
- Alignment
- Bone
- Cartilage
- Soft Tissues
ABCS: What 4 things should you assess for A?
A = Alignment
- Assess size of bone
- Assess/count number of bones
- Assess bones for normal contour and shape
- Assess the position of the bone in relation to the joint
ABCS: What 3 things should you assess for B?
B = Bone
- Assess Bone density
- Compare bone density at weight bearing surfaces
- Look at the texture of the one
ABCS: What 3 things should you assess for C?
C = Cartilage 1. Look at the joint space 2. Assess subchrondral bone 3. Look at the growth plates and epiphysis
What are the Hallmarks of OA (Fairbanks Changes)? (4)
- Joint space narrowing 2. Bone spurs 3. Sclerotic borders 4. Subchrondral bone cysts
ABCS: What 3 things should you assess for S?
S = Soft Tissue 1. Look at gross size of surrounding muscle 2. Notice joint capsule outline (might see effusion) 3. Look at periosteum
What are 5 things to remember when interpreting radiographs?
- Stability of affected area 2. Joints/area proximal & distal to the area of concern 3. Area of concern associated with pathology, such as 4. Chest films with neoplasms 5. Calcaneal fx associated with thoracolumbar Fx