Diagnostic Imaging

At Pinehurst Surgical, patients can tell us what’s going on with their joints. They can detail their pain, where it seems to come from, and when it occurs. And Dr. Moore can move the joint and examine the surrounding areas to get a good idea of what’s going on. 

But sometimes you just can’t beat the amazing images generated by modern diagnostic imaging. At Pinehurst Surgical, we’re especially proud to work with Alliance Imaging to offer an array of tests, from CT scans to MRIs to Nuclear Bone Scans, all in house. Beyond the obvious convenience, there’s also no need for you to have an individual disk with the imaging or additional paperwork — we load all of the images and readings directly into your patient file. 

Here’s more about our diagnostic imaging at Pinehurst Surgical. 

What is diagnostic imaging? 

Diagnostic imaging uses different technologies to allow us to see inside your body (usually into your joints in our situation) for diagnosis and treatment of disease and other health issues. Although everyone knows the original form of diagnostic imaging — the x-ray — today x-rays have been joined by CT scans, MRIs, PET scans, ultrasound, and other technologies to make a huge impact on diagnostic ability. At Pinehurst, our association with Alliance Imaging, allows us to provide CT scans, MRIs, and Nuclear Bone Scans right here in our facility on First Village Drive. 

What should I expect during my imaging session? 

Everyone has had an x-ray, either at the dentist or doctor’s office. The difference in our x-rays at Pinehurst Surgical is that we often have the patient either stand or squat. This can provide better information on joint inflammation. 

MRIs are the one test that some people have trouble with. This is because the patient must be inside the MRI system for a period of 2-5 minutes for each section being imaged. When inside, you must remain very still to not distort the images being taken. The overall MRI procedure can take from 20 minutes to an hour depending on the area being imaged. 

CT scans are like MRIs in that the patient is on a table and is moved into the imaging machine. The difference is that in a CT scan the table continues to move through the machine, rather than being enclosed inside it. 

What are the risks of diagnostic imaging tests? 

There is a slight risk of radiation exposure with x-rays, but our digital x-ray system uses far less radiation than the previous film x-ray systems. Occasional x-rays for orthopedic injuries really involve no risk with radiation exposure. The average person receives more radiation from normal activities and sun exposure in a year than if they had a number of x-rays. 

MRIs don’t use radiation. Instead, they generate three-dimensional images using a magnetic field. These have no risks. 

CT scans, short for computer tomography, use low dose x-rays combined with computer technology to produce their three-dimensional images. Again, these doses are very low, and most patients may only receive a CT scan once every few years. 

Trust Dr. Moore and our team at Pinehurst Surgical Orthopaedic & Joint Replacement Center to provide the finest in orthopedic care and orthopedic diagnostic imaging. To make an appointment, call (910) 295-0224.