If you are referred to a radiologist for a scan you might be wondering what to expect, how the procedure works and what it’s used for. Our glossary of radiology tests is a quick reference guide to the different types of scans and what they are used for. Your radiologist will be able to provide more detailed information about your particular procedure and what to do on the day.
Scans are often used to diagnose a disease or injury but they may also be used to treat certain conditions – for example by administering therapeutic injections into damaged joints. Here at W27 we offer the following types of scans:
X-ray
An X-ray uses radiation that is passed through the affected part of the body to produce images of different body structures. You may be sent for an X-ray if you have a suspected fracture or dislocation. X-rays are also used to identify inflammation and infection and diagnose conditions like arthritis. They can also be used to guide certain surgical procedures.
X-rays work by subjecting the body to ionising radiation. This is absorbed by the tissues in the body in differing amounts, giving the characteristic shades of black, grey and white that you see on an X-ray. Dense tissues like bones absorb X-rays the most so these appear white or light grey, whereas air is least able to absorb X-rays which means the lungs may appear black.
Because X-rays expose you to small amounts of radiation they are not recommended during pregnancy. In other circumstances, your doctor will weigh up whether the risk (which is very minor) is justified by the benefit the X-ray will provide. If you are at all concerned, talk to your doctor or radiologist.
Ultrasound
An ultrasound scan uses high frequency sound waves. These are transmitted using a hand-held probe which is applied to the affected area of your body. Ultrasound scans produce real-time images of the inside of your body, including organs, bones, joints, muscles, tendons and ligaments. They are used to diagnose many different conditions from torn tendons and ligaments through to trapped nerves and tumours.
The sound waves generated by the ultrasound probe bounce off different tissues in the body creating echoes. These are picked up by the probe and converted into images on the screen using a computer processor. Sometimes these images may be moving (such as during pregnancy). Ultrasound scans can produce both static and dynamic images.
Ultrasound scans are considered very safe because unlike X-rays and MRI scans they do not expose you to radiation, relying instead on sound waves to produce images.
CT Scan
A CT (computerised tomography) scan uses X-rays which pass through your body and create lots of ‘thin slice’ images of the affected area. The radiographer then reconstructs these thin slices to produce detailed 3D images. CT scans are used to diagnose conditions affecting the bones, joints and organs, as well as for monitoring existing conditions such as tumours. CT scans are also routinely used to treat musculoskeletal conditions and for nerve root injections. They may also be used to plan custom implants in joint replacement surgery.
CT scans work in a similar way to X-rays however the thin slice images they produce provide a very detailed picture of the inside of your body and can be used to create an accurate 3D image. Because they provide more detailed information than conventional X-rays they may be used to confirm a suspected diagnosis.
Like X-ray, CT scans expose your body to low levels of radiation and are not recommended in some circumstances. Sometimes a contrast dye may be used and there is a small risk of developing an allergic reaction.
MRI Scan
An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan uses a magnetic field and radio frequency energy to produce detailed images of the inside of your body. During the scan you will lie inside a large tube that surrounds your entire body. The scanner makes loud tapping noises and, although you will normally be offered earplugs or headphones to screen out the noise, some people may find this uncomfortable.
MRI scans are used to diagnose a wide range of conditions affecting the bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, tendons and spine. They may be used to diagnose and monitor tumours and to check the impact of certain types of treatment.
MRI scans work by subjecting the protons that occur naturally in your body to radio waves. These protons react, sending out radio signals which are picked up by the scanner. Because the protons in different tissues of the body react at different speeds and give off different signals, an MRI scan can produce very detailed images of the inside of your body.
Because MRI scans use magnets rather than radiation they are relatively safe although not suitable for people with a pacemaker or some other types of implants. Some people find MRI scans claustrophobic and may wish to request a sedative.
Diagnostic Arthrogram Injection
This type of injection is administered alongside an X-ray, CT or MRI scan. It involves injecting contrast dye into affected joints to help diagnose the cause of any pain. If you have the procedure using X-ray or CT scan, you will be exposed to a small amount of radiation, however the level of risk is minimal.
For more information about any of these procedures or for advice about your particular condition, contact us.
If you have suffered a sporting injury, whether due to an accident or as a result of long-term damage, contact W27 for specialist advice and diagnosis.
SPORTS INJURY TREATMENT | MANCHESTER, LONDON, CHESHIRE + MORE
W27 provides fast, accurate diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal symptoms and conditions using the latest state-of-the-art imaging facilities.
For your appointment there is a choice of locations:
The OrthTeam Centre Ohm Building – 168 Barlow Moor Road, Manchester, M20 2AF
Euxton Hall Hospital – Wigan Road, Euxton, Chorley, PR7 6DY
MedSerena Upright MRI Centre Manchester – 26-28 The Boulevard, Manchester, M20 2EU
The John Charnley Wing, Wrightington Hospital – Hall Lane, Appley Bridge, Wigan, WN6 9EP
The Spire Manchester – 170 Barlow Moor Road, Didsbury, Manchester, M20 2AF
MedSerena Upright MRI Centre London – 114a Cromwell Road, Kensington, London, SW7 4ES
HCA The Wilmslow Hospital – 52 Alderley Road, Wilmslow, Cheshire, SK9 1NY
Information about our Fees can be found here.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss your options with a specialist, please contact the team to book an initial consultation.
