Imaging - Nels Sampatacos, MD

Imaging

“Imaging” refers to how advanced technology can take an “image” or picture of the inside of your body and aid in determining abnormalities, injuries or disease. In orthopedics, we use many forms of imaging to look at bones, cartilage, ligaments, and tendons.

X-ray

X-rays are the most common diagnostic imaging technique. They are widely available and images can be seen instantly. They use radiation to produce an image of your body’s internal structures and can be used to diagnose bone degeneration, fractures, dislocations, and calcifications.

X-rays might not show as much detail as other imaging techniques (e.g MRI, CT). They are however, the most common imaging tool used in evaluating orthopedic issues and you will most likely get an X-ray before more sophisticated tests.

MRI

MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is a test that produces images in greater detail than X-ray. It uses magnetic fields and sophisticated computers to take high-resolution pictures and cross-sections or “slices” of the body part being scanned. We use MRI to help look more closely at soft tissues such as ligaments and tendons, as well as cartilage.

MRa

MRA (Magnetic Resonance Arthrogram) is like an MRI except that it requires injection of contrast dye into the joint being studied. Distension of the joint from the contrast material can better highlight some particular structures that MRI might not capture, such as labral tears of the hip or shoulder. It can also be very useful in patients who have had previous surgery to identify new tears vs post-surgical changes.

Ultrasound

Ultrasound technology is a non-invasive way to evaluate soft tissue injuries. It allows us to provide “real-time” evaluations and diagnosis at the time of your visit. While with other imaging studies patients must lie still, ultrasound offers the benefit of watching the specific body part in motion for a better understanding of the injury. It is safe and can be done in the office.

Ultrasound-guided injections

Ultrasound can also be used to help deliver medication, such as cortisone, more precisely while avoiding certain structures and soft tissues. Oftentimes, pain might be coming from multiple sources. The ability to specifically place an injection will aid in quantifying how much pain is coming from the source and can “rule out” sources as well. This can ultimately maximize pain relief and help confirm a diagnosis.

Restoring form and function, so that you can get back on the field.

ABOUT US

Dr. Nels Sampatacos is a sports medicine fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in minimally-invasive/arthroscopic surgery of the shoulder, elbow, hip, knee, and ankle, as well as shoulder replacement surgery.

Nels Sampatacos MD, received his MD degree from the University of Arizona, College of Medicine. He completed his general surgery internship and orthopedic surgery residency at the University of Washington / Harborview Medical Center. After his final year as chief resident, Dr. Sampatacos completed a fellowship in sports medicine, arthroscopy, and reconstructive surgery at the prestigious Southern California Orthopedic Institute (SCOI), Van Nuys, California. He received his board certification through the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery and currently specializes in minimally-invasive/arthroscopic surgery of the shoulder, elbow, hip, knee, and ankle, as well as shoulder replacement surgery.

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