Benefits of Diagnostic Imaging in Maui, Wailuku HI

Diagnostic imaging is a type of tool that consists of several different techniques depending on the specific needs to identify causes of injuries or illnesses within the body of a patient. The physician may already have an idea of the potential diagnoses causing the symptoms, but with diagnostic imaging techniques, they are able to view the inside of the body to help them figure out a much more accurate diagnosis. Depending on the technique, diagnostic imaging is able to provide images of the internal structures and functioning within the patient’s body to identify concerns or even to see how the body is healing from an injury or post-treatment.

The primary use for all diagnostic imaging techniques is to identify and diagnose illness or injuries within the body and to visually assess how the body is responding to treatment. It is a great option to see what is going on inside of the body without having to endure a surgical procedure to get a closer look. There are several different types of diagnostic imaging techniques that are used to identify different potential concerns and are sometimes used in tandem to reach various angles for a more accurate diagnosis. Some techniques allow for early detection of conditions such as cancer or pinpointing the location of tumors or blood clots. They may also be used to diagnose dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, appendicitis, or a variety of pulmonary diseases. Other methods of diagnostic imaging are also used to determine if there is internal bleeding, or to diagnose disorders in the bones or muscles. Additionally, diagnostic imaging may also be used to help physicians during surgery to guide them in situations where they may not be able to physically see the work that needs to be done.

There are many different types of diagnostic imaging, the most commonly used including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, computed topography (CT) scans, ultrasounds, X-rays, and several more. MRI scans use a powerful magnet to provide imaging of the patient’s body to diagnose conditions such as abnormalities in the brain, joints, and spinal cord, various types of cancer, cysts, fibroids, endometriosis, tumors, abdominal disease, liver disease, and much more. There is also a type of MRI scan known as magnetic resonance angiogram (MRA) scan, that is used to obtain detailed imaging of the blood vessels to identify blood clots, aneurysms, strokes, and more. CT scans are another well-known type of diagnostic imaging that uses several X-ray images from various angles to put together a comprehensive evaluation of the brain, neck, spine, chest, and abdomen, looking for any injuries or illnesses within these areas of the body. Ultrasounds use high-frequency waves to provide real-time imaging of the organs ad blood flow wherever it is being used. X-rays are the most common and well-known diagnostic imaging tools, primarily used to identify injuries to the bones.

Diagnostic imaging has been a significant step in medicine, allowing for early detection of life-threatening conditions, precision in diagnostics, and the ability to identify concerns and pinpoint exactly where they may be allowing patients to avoid unnecessary and potentially dangerous exploratory surgical procedures. The many different techniques of diagnostic imaging allow physicians to provide more accurate treatment and allow for more accuracy in surgery when required, overall increasing the chances of a healthy recovery for their patients.
 
If any of the above signs are present, it is imperative to seek professional medical care as soon as possible. NorthShore Orthopedics is dedicated to helping you improve the health of your feet and ankles. Call us today to book an appointment to meet with our foot and ankle specialist, or visit our clinic. We serve patients from Maui, Wailea, Kihei, Hana, Lahaina, Kaanapali, Lana’i, Moloka‘i, Oahu, Kaua’i, and Hawai’i Island