Introduction to Diagnostic Radiography

Between what ages would we ask for LMP status?

• 15-60

• 12-55

• 10-65

• All ages

Should we always produce more than one view when taking MSK diagnostic images in X-ray?

• No! 1 view is enough to demonstrate a fracture and make a diagnosis, whilst minimising radiation dose to the patient

• Yes! two views minimum are always required to view the extent of a fracture, with one view some fractures are missed

How many fractures can you see?

• 1

• 2

• 3

Answer explanation

There is a distal spiral fracture to the 5th metacarpal

How many Weber classifications are there for ankle fractures?

• 1

• 2

• 3

• 4

Answer explanation

There are 3! Type A, B & C

Do Physiotherapists collaborate with Radiographers in practice?

• Yes

• No

Answer explanation

Yes! You can help us to position inpatients during mobile chest X-rays when assessing a patient on a ward

Which imaging modality is best for assessing soft tissues, tendons, and muscles?

• X-Ray

• MRI

• Ultrasound

• CT

Answer explanation

An MRI offers excellent contrast resolution for bones and soft tissues.” Torn or detached ligaments, tendons, muscles and cartilage, such as: Meniscal tears. ACL injuries

Which imaging modalities do not use ionising radiation?

• CT

• MRI

• X-Ray

• US

Answer explanation

MRI uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images of the inside of the body. Ultrasound uses sound waves! Both of these are non-ironising

Which guidelines do we use when justifying a patient referral for diagnostic imaging?

• NICE guidelines

• The Ionising Radiation (Medical Exposure) Regulations 2017

• NHS hospital protocol

• Royal College of Radiologists

Answer explanation

All 4 of these need to be considered when referring a patient for specific diagnostic imaging

What is the best method to use when interpreting diagnostic X-ray images?

• 10 point check list

• ABC'S

• Following a systematic review

• Looking for fractures only

Answer explanation

All three of these methods should be used to interpret diagnostic images!

What advantage does CT have over MRI?

• Better at demonstrating soft tissues and tendon injuries

• Good at evaluating bone density and bone pathologies

Answer explanation

A CT scan may be better for evaluating bone density and structural changes in bone. A CT scan is better for showing bone and joint issues, blood clots, and some organ injuries, while an MRI is better for inflammation, torn ligaments, nerve and spinal problems, and soft tissues.