Diagnostic Imaging Serving Danbury, Litchfield, Fairfield Areas in CT

What is the Difference Between Diagnostic Imaging and Radiology?

The terms diagnostic imaging and radiology are often used interchangeably by the public when referencing imaging exams, but they really are two different concepts, both of which are used to make diagnoses. Radiology is a medical specialty in which a radiologist, a doctor who has deeply studied the field, uses radiant energy to diagnose and treat diseases. Diagnostic imaging is the technology that radiologists use to read and interpret images, and it includes X-ray, MRI, CT scan, and Ultrasound. At OrthoConnecticut, we perform on-site digital X-ray and diagnostic musculoskeletal ultrasound to help confirm orthopedic diagnoses.

Is Diagnostic Imaging the Same as MRI?

An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is one type of diagnostic imaging tool. It is used to detect tumors, injuries, lesions, and infections. MRIs do not use any radiation. Instead, they involve a powerful magnet and radiofrequency waves that create 3-dimensional images of organs, muscles, and tissues inside your body. When our patients require MRI, we refer them to our radiology colleagues who use state-of-the-art MRI equipment to perform the latest MRI techniques available today.

Is an Ultrasound Considered Diagnostic Imaging?

Ultrasound is another form of medical diagnostic imaging that produces live, real-time digital pictures. It uses a small probe to transmit sound waves into the body and records the sound waves that echo back to the equipment. This process produces images that display on the technologist’s computer screen. Ultrasound does not use any radiation, which is why it is often used to observe pregnant women whose babies are in utero. In orthopedics, ultrasound can provide detailed views of a person’s muscles and tendons, and help determine if a condition is muscle, tendon or bone-related.

What are the most common tests used in orthopedic evaluations?

There are a variety of assessments that can be used to diagnose and screen for orthopedic conditions. Testing confirms the location and severity of the issue and determines if other causes for pain or mobility issues may be at play.

Common orthopedic tests include bone densitometry, skeletal scintigraphy, discography, myelography, and electromyography. Most of these exams use X-ray, MRI, ultrasound, or computed tomography to confirm a diagnosis. Other tests, such as flexibility tests, stress or muscle tests, and gait analysis, may be used to assess the range of motion or identify skeletal alignment abnormalities or muscle function issues. The field of orthopedics also utilizes other exams, including muscle and bone marrow biopsy, to help identify conditions and crystallize diagnoses.

How Should I Prepare for an Imaging Appointment?

Most X-ray or diagnostic ultrasound imaging procedures at OrthoConnecticut do not require prior preparation.

However, if you are going to your radiologist’s office for an imaging appointment, some common steps in preparing for it may include:

• Not eating or drinking 3-12 hours before your appointment
• Informing your physician of any medical conditions
• Reporting any metal or foreign objects in your body (such as pacemakers, metal prosthetics, etc.)
• Removing all metal jewelry or watches

It’s important to consult with your physician or radiologist’s office, as these instructions may differ based on the type of exam.

What Kind of Conditions Can be Treated at OrthoConnecticut?

OrthoConnecticut is equipped to offer patients state-of-the-art advanced digital radiography services for hands, feet, hips, joints, shoulders, elbows, spine, and more. We perform digital X-ray and digital diagnostic ultrasound in our offices.

What Does Diagnostic Imaging Include?

Diagnostic imaging is when a doctor looks “inside” your body, through advanced imaging technology, to discover clues about a possible medical condition. A diagnostic imaging appointment will include different machines and techniques depending on the type of imaging you receive. Types of diagnostic imaging include:

• CT Scans
• MRI Scans
• Ultrasound
• X-Rays 
• Mammography
• Nuclear Medicine

Most medical imaging tests are easy and pain-free, though they may be uncomfortable if you have to stay inside a machine for an extended period of time. For example, a CT scan can last anywhere from 15 minutes up to an hour. Some tests may incorporate exposure to small amounts of radiation.

Other imaging tests use a scope, a long tube with a tiny camera on its end, to do diagnostic imaging. Using a scope for imaging typically requires anesthesia. A doctor will carefully move the scope through your body to see inside certain organs or joints.

What is Diagnostic Imaging Used For?

Diagnostic imaging is used to diagnose, monitor, and treat certain diseases by creating images that provide a picture of the interior of your body. It allows physicians to make earlier diagnoses which often leads to better patient outcomes. Medical imaging has also revolutionized the healthcare industry and reduced the need for unnecessary invasive procedures. Diagnostic imaging is used for:

• Diagnosing the root cause of medical problems
• Monitoring your body’s response to treatments, such as chemotherapy for cancer
• Regular screening for illnesses like breast or colon cancer