Medical Imaging Modalities
This fast, cost-effective modality uses radiation to evaluate bony injuries like fractures or dislocations
X-ray
This is the main limitation of an X-ray, which is why doctors often need a minimum of two different views of an injury
It produces a 2D image of a 3D object
Name the three primary layers of the body shown in our close-up lesson diagrams
Skin, Muscle, and Bone
This is the medical term for a broken bone, which is easiest to identify on an X-ray
Fracture
This radiation-free imaging modality uses strong magnets and radio waves to provide highly detailed images of joints, spinal discs, and soft tissues
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
Unlike X-rays and CT scans, both MRIs and Ultrasounds share this major health safety benefit
They do not expose the patient to radiation (radiation-free)
These two types of tiny structures are found running through all three layers of skin, muscle, and bone
Blood vessels and nerves
Looking down at a cross-section of a knee joint from above represents this type of sectional view
Horizontal cross-section
This modality fires multiple X-rays from different angles to create detailed 3D and cross-sectional images of bone, blood vessels, and soft tissues
CT Scan
An MRI cannot be performed on patients with certain types of these because the strong magnet can heat them up or attract them
Metal implants
This is the soft, spongy tissue found inside the center of bones
Bone marrow
Looking at a cross-section of a knee joint from the front or side represents this type of sectional view
Vertical cross-section
This modality uses high-frequency sound waves to evaluate soft tissues and can be performed in real-time during movement
Ultrasound
While highly detailed, this 3D-capable scan is expensive and exposes patients to a greater amount of radiation than a plain X-ray
CT Scan
This smooth, flexible tissue covers and protects the ends of bones at joints
Cartilage
True or False: MRI joint images look exactly the same no matter what angle or slice is taken
FALSE
A doctor might use both of these imaging modalities to fully understand a complex joint injury that affects both bone and soft tissue
X-ray and MRI
This is the main reason why ultrasound cannot be used to evaluate deep knee structures like the meniscus or the ACL (anterior cruciate ligament).
It cannot penetrate deep tissues
This tough band of fibrous tissue connects muscle to bone
Tendon
While analyzing hand images, this modality is much better than an X-ray at showing soft tissues and muscles clearly
MRI