Monday, July 13, 2009

Diagnostic Tests For Wrist Pain

Wrist X-ray image


Wrist pain can be a result of a disease, an injury or other conditions such as arthritis or carpal tunnel syndrome. But an accurate diagnosis of wrist pain can be determined by diagnostic testing such as an X-ray, CT scan, bone scan or MRI scan.


X-Ray


The X-ray can be used to reveal possible bone fractures or any evidence of osteoarthritis in the wrist.


CT Scan


The computerized tomography (CT) scan provides a more detailed view of the wrist bones by taking X-ray images and combining the images to make a two-dimensional image.


Bone Scan


A bone scan is used to detect stress fractures by injecting a small amount of radioactive material into the bloodstream to make any injured parts of the bone brighter and more visible.


MRI Scan


An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to reveal detailed images of the bones and soft tissues of the wrist.


Warning


An extended delay in diagnosis and treatment can lead to long-term disability.







Tags: bone scan