MRI, CT, bone density measurements

Did you know?

Cross-sectional images show a great deal – including a great deal that causes no symptoms. Disc bulges, tendon changes or meniscus tears are often found in people who are entirely free of symptoms. An abnormal finding on MRI is therefore not automatically the cause of your pain.

The radiology report describes what can be seen on the image. The decisive question, however, is: does it match your symptoms, and what follows from it? We answer this question together with you.

What we assess for you:

• MRI scans of the spine, knee, shoulder, hip and other joints
• CT images, for example after fractures or to assess the bone
• Findings of a bone density measurement
• Previous X-rays and prior findings
• Operation reports and doctor’s letters from previous treatments
• You do not need to have examinations that have already been done repeated with us. You can simply bring images from Germany or from other doctors in Mallorca.

Bone density measurement: what the value means

• Bone density is usually measured by the DXA method at the lumbar spine and the hip. The result is the so-called T-score. It compares your bone density with that of young healthy adults:
• T-score of minus 1.0 or above: normal bone density
• T-score between minus 1.0 and minus 2.5: reduced bone density (osteopenia)
• T-score of minus 2.5 or below: osteoporosis
• The figure alone does not, however, decide the treatment. Just as important are your age, fractures already sustained, a tendency to trip and fall, pre-existing conditions and medication. We include these factors in the assessment.

What you should bring with you:

• The CD or the data carrier with the image data, not only the written report
• The written report, if available
• Earlier images of the same region, including older ones — comparison over time is often more informative than a single image
• Doctor’s letters and operation reports

How we proceed:

We look at your images together with you on the screen and explain what can be seen. We then relate the finding to your symptoms and the physical examination, and discuss which treatment follows from it – and which is not necessary.

If a further examination is appropriate, we will tell you which one and why.

You have images and do not know what they mean? Bring them with you – we will go through them with you.

Talk to us – we will be glad to advise you in person.