Pain
Intervention

A Musculoskeletal Radiologist is a medical doctor who has completed a residency in Diagnostic Radiology and is then fellowship trained in the diagnosis and treatment of bone, joint, muscle and connective tissue conditions using state of the art imaging equipment and through the use of minimally invasive imaging-guided procedures.

Obtaining an accurate diagnosis is the critical first step to developing an effective treatment plan. We work closely with your provider to:

Accurately diagnose the source(s) of your musculoskeletal
and/or spine pain.

Discuss potential minimally invasive treatments with your provider.

Formulate an individualized patient treatment plan with your provider which may include joint or tendon injections, nerve blocks or other minimally invasive interventions.

Musculoskeletal Radiologists use a variety of imaging tools to aid in the diagnosis of musculoskeletal conditions, including:

• Computed Tomography (CT or CAT scan)
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
• Arthrography (Special type of MRI)
• X-ray
• Ultrasound
• Nuclear Medicine Bone Scan
• Myelogram (Usually in conjunction with CT or MRI)

Available imaging-guided procedures include therapeutic and diagnostic steroid injections (joints, tendons, bursa), Synvisc injections, epidural steroid injections, and nerve blocks. In each case the Radiologist will use imaging guidance, often fluoroscopy or ultrasound, to guide the procedure, ensuring a safe and accurate injection.

Joint, Tendon and Bursa Injections
Joint, tendon and bursa injections, typically with steroids, to help reduce inflammation and provide pain relief.

Arthrograms
Contrast fluid injected into a joint followed by an MRI examination. Arthrograms are helpful in diagnosing persistent or unexplained joint pain or discomfort. Often used for detecting shoulder and/or hip labral tears.

Epidural Injections
Anesthetic and steroid medications injected into the epidural space (the area outside the spinal cord but inside the spinal column) to relieve back pain caused by spinal stenosis or nerve root compression.

Nerve Root Blocks
Injections done to treat spinal nerve root compression and radicular pain.

Facet Joint Injections
Injection done between vertebrae to treat pain from facet joint disease, usually osteoarthritis.

Myelograms
Injection of contrast fluid into spinal canal, followed by CT or MRI, to evaluate the spinal cord and nerve roots for suspected compression.

Preparation will vary, depending on what type of procedure you’ll have. You’ll be given specific instructions ahead of time. Be sure to review them carefully, as some require that you do not eat or drink anything starting four hours prior to your exam. You should continue medications prescribed by your provider unless informed otherwise. For all procedures, we ask that you dress comfortably. For some exams, you’ll be asked to change into scrubs supplied for you.

Imaging Associates offers expertise in a full range of diagnostic medical imaging services and interventional procedures. Each of our facilities is staffed by sub-specialized board-certified radiologists, skilled technologists and an exceptional support staff. Regardless of the type of exam you need, you can rest assured that you will receive exceptional care in a comfortable and compassionate environment.

A final report, produced by one of Alaska Radiology Associate’s local specialized radiologists, will be available for most exams within two hours. Questions about your results should be directed to your referring health care provider. For any other questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us directly.