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MSK Diagnostic Tests
| Test | Definition | Good For | Nursing Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard X-Rays | Skeletal Issues | -Often interfered by swelling and tissue | |
| Computed Tomography (CT) | 3D plains or slices of the MS system with or without contrast | -Allergy to Iodine or Shellfish -BUN/CR -Pre/Hydrate | |
| Magnetic Resonance Imagining (MRI) | Radio waves bounce off of body tissues with or without contrast | Joints, Soft Tissues, Bony Tumors, Spinal and Knee problems, Muscles, Tendons, Ligaments | -Allergy to contrast -Ability to lie still -OK PREGNANCY -Remove all metal -Renal Function -Claustrophobia |
| Myelography | Spinal puncture to visualize vertenbrae, intervertebral discs, spinal nerve roots, and blood vessels of spine | Dx of spinal problems such as nerve injury, herniated discs, spinal tumors | -Allergy to contrast -Renal Function -NO PREGNANCY -Supine poistion with HOB 30-50 degrees |
| Arthorgram | Contrast into joint space | Bone chips, torn ligaments, or loose bodies within joint space | -Less common due to MRI |
| Arthroscopy | Camera into joint space | Dx or repair joint damage, most often knee and shoulder | -Must be able to flex knee -PT consult/ROM -Informed consent -Neurovascular assessment -Ice, elevation, activity restrictions, pain management, s/s of infections |
| Bone Scans | Radioactive material (gallium or thallium) to view entire skeleton | Detect metastatic bone disease, hairline fractures with unexplained bone pain, osteomyelitis | -Isotope administered 4-6 hours prior -Must be able to lie still -Hydration |
| Ultrasound | Sound waves to produce image of tissues | Soft tissue disorders, joint injuries, osteomyelitis, surgical hardware placement | |
| Bone/Muscle Biopsy | Open or close removal of bone tissue or muscle tissue | Bone: Infection or neoplasm Muscle: Inflammation or atrophy | -Assess for bleeding -Administer mild analgesics for pain -Assess for tenderness, warmth, redness (S&S of infection) |
| Electromyography | Evaluate nerve conduction and muscle weakness | Dx neuromuscular, lower motor neuron, and peripheral nerve disorders | -Hold muscle relaxants 2-3 days prior -Inspect needle sites for bleeding, hematoma -Ice -Mild analgesics -No anticoagulants |
| Dual Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry | Measures bone and mineral density; T-score represents the number of standard deviations above or below the average BMD for young, healthy adults | Most often spine and hip | -Medicare reimburses every 2 years after age 65 |