Radiodiagnosis, also known as diagnostic imaging, is the medical specialty which deals with generating images of the interior of the body through different physical agents, little bit or non invasive (X-rays, ultrasound or magnetic fields among others) for the diagnosis and treatment of the pathologies.
RADIODIAGNOSIS TESTS
Radiology (X-RAY)
It’s obtained by using x-rays. The equipment emits ionizing radiation to capture images of any part of the body with a greater emphasis on bones and joints.
The images are normally reproduced in the radiographic films, a kind of photographic negatives of the explored area (although they are increasingly presented in digital format). Its signal and resolution are very accurate with excellent image quality.
Open Magnetic Resonance Imaging (only limbs)
The Magnetic resonance imaging is based on the sending of magnetic waves and radio waves to the interior of the body, which is subjected to an intense magnetic field producing a resonance that is interpreted by computers allowing the the obtention of detailed images of the interior of the body.
It is the test that provides more information about joint and soft tissue injuries (ligaments, tendons, bursas, muscles, etc.)
Thanks to MRI we can identify the cause of pain, swelling or bleeding in the tissues that surround the joints and allows us to see injuries in tendons, ligaments, muscles and even fractures that are not visible on radiographs. MRI is also useful to evaluate degenerative processes such as osteoarthritis.
We have an open resonance equipment for the diagnosis of the limbs (knee, ankle, wrist and elbow). Unlike other traditional closed resonance equipment, it helps to avoid the usual sensations of claustrophobia caused by closed spaces, which increases patient’s comfort during the test. Even children can be accompanied by their parents while the scan is performed. It is also especially indicated for patients with obesity.
Musculoskeletal ultrasound
The ultrasound scan is based on sending sound waves through the body that are reflected by internal organs. These reflexes are interpreted by technological instruments capable of creating an image of any part of the body.
It is used to explore the musculoskeletal system and thus detect muscle, ligaments or joints problems.
The images are captured in real time, so the ultrasounds also allows to perceive the movement, function and anatomy of the patient.
Ultrasound is useful in the diagnosis of tendon ruptures, such as the rupture of the rotator cuff of the shoulder or the Achilles tendon in the ankle. It also allows to see if there are muscle abnormalities, such as fibrillar tears or even detect the presence of bleeding or fluid within the muscle and joint.
Echocardiography
Echocardiography is a technology that uses ultrasound techniques to produce images of the heart and study its functioning.
Thanks to echocardiography, we can know the shape, size and strength of the heart, as well as the movement, thickness of its walls and functioning of its valves.
All this allows us to detect any anomaly that could trigger a more serious problem.
Currently, the latest ultrasound systems use real-time and 3D images, which allows a better analysis and diagnosis of possible related pathologies.