FM JANUARY 2019 - digital edition

orthopaedics
ADVANCED
ORTHO IMAGING
Newer imaging modalities are set to transform
the management of skeletal diseases
DR VINOD KUMAR B P
X-rays revolutionized orthopedic
management in fundamental
ways, especially in the diagnosis
of conditions and their management.
However, there are limitations to
X-rays that have paved the way for the
further advancements in this field.
An analysis of the limitations
reveals that X-rays cannot visualise
cartilages, occult fractures and stress
fractures. Also, early detection of
osteomyelitis, tumours with marrow
involvement and micrometastasis or
soft tissue component are not possible.
Many hospitals nowadays
utilise PACS (Picture Archival and
Communicating System). PACS is an
imaging technology which transmits
images and reports digitally in the
universal format DICOM (Digital
Imaging and Communications in
Medicine). The major components of
PACS include the imaging modalities
THE MAJOR COMPONENTS
OF PACS INCLUDE THE
IMAGING MODALITIES
A SECURED NETWORK
AND WORKSTATIONS FOR
INTERPRETING THE IMAGES
(like X-ray, CT, MRI), a secured network,
and workstations for interpreting the
images, and archives for the storage
and retrieval of images and reports.
The system offers some major benefits.
A soft copy of X-ray films replaces the
costlier hard copy film. In teleradiology
and telediagnosis, it facilitates the
effective and efficient management
of various medical conditions. It
also allows for electronic image
integration with Hospital Information
System, Radiology Information
System, Electronic Medical Record,
thus enabling a seamless flow of
information across the system.
MRIs for occult fractures
Since the development of MRI back
60 / FUTURE MEDICINE / JANUARY 2019