Before a medical or surgical treatment or rehabilitation protocol can be established, your orthopedic surgeon must first diagnose your condition. An evaluation involves a comprehensive physical examination and a detailed medical profile of your current symptoms and past medical conditions.
Tests Orthopedic patients often require further evaluation using one or more of the following tests:
X-ray: a diagnostic test that uses invisible electromagnetic energy beams.
Arthrogram: an X-ray to view bone structures following an injection of a contrast fluid into a joint area.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): a diagnostic procedure that uses a combination of large magnets, radio frequencies, and a computer to produce detailed images of organs and structures.
Computed tomography scan (also called a CT or CAT scan.): a diagnostic imaging procedure that uses a combination of X-rays and computer technology to produce cross-sectional images.
Electromyogram (EMG): a test to evaluate nerve and muscle function.
Ultrasound: a diagnostic technique which uses high-frequency sound waves to create an image of the internal organs and structures.
Arthroscopy: a minimally-invasive diagnostic and treatment procedure used to determine the cause of joint conditions.
Myelogram: This procedure involves the injection of a dye or contrast material into the spinal canal.
Radionuclide bone scan: This is a nuclear imaging technique that uses a very small amount of radioactive material, which is injected into the patient's bloodstream to be detected by a scanner.
Treatment Your orthopedic surgeon performs a comprehensive evaluation of your condition and makes recommendations for a treatment plan that works best for you, based on:
Age, overall health, medical history
Extent of the disease, injury, or condition
Tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies
Expectations for the course of the disease, injury, or condition
Options For most orthopedic disorders and injuries, there is more than one possible treatment plan. Orthopedic treatment plans can involve a combination or progression of the following:
