Elbow Imaging: Difference between revisions
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Xrays are done predominantly for fractures and other red flag conditions. | Xrays are done predominantly for fractures and other red flag conditions, and are not helpful for conditions such as tendinopathies. | ||
Rules for imaging in the trauma setting | Rules for imaging in the trauma setting | ||
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*Bony tenderness | *Bony tenderness | ||
*Instability shown on examination (varus / valgus aligned stress testing) | *Instability shown on examination (varus / valgus aligned stress testing) | ||
*History of trauma consistent with fracture or dislocation | |||
*Bone tenderness in patients with no other diagnosis – as a screen for intra-osseous pathology | |||
*Compression of the joint reproduces pain – as a screen for intra-articular pathology | |||
*Risk factors for osteoporosis or pathological fractures (Paget’s) | |||
*In the presence of abnormal movements of the elbow (instability / locking | |||
==References== | ==References== | ||
[[Category:Elbow & Forearm]] | [[Category:Elbow & Forearm]] |
Revision as of 08:09, 21 June 2020
Xrays are done predominantly for fractures and other red flag conditions, and are not helpful for conditions such as tendinopathies.
Rules for imaging in the trauma setting
- Significant force applied to the elbow
- Immediate loss of elbow function
- Marked soft tissue swelling / contusion
- Bony tenderness
- Instability shown on examination (varus / valgus aligned stress testing)
- History of trauma consistent with fracture or dislocation
- Bone tenderness in patients with no other diagnosis – as a screen for intra-osseous pathology
- Compression of the joint reproduces pain – as a screen for intra-articular pathology
- Risk factors for osteoporosis or pathological fractures (Paget’s)
- In the presence of abnormal movements of the elbow (instability / locking