Radiology in Arizona

Musculoskeletal MRI and CT

Imaging:

The section of Musculoskeletal MRI and CT perform high resolution cross-sectional imaging of the musculoskeletal system, using four high-field strength, state-of-the-art MRI scanners and four multidetector helical CT scanners.

MRI provides unsurpassed soft tissue and bone marrow imaging capabilities. Internal joint derangement, muscle and tendon injuries, radiographically occult fractures, and infections and tumors of bone and soft tissue are best imaged with MRI.

Multidetector CT scans allows us to image abnormalities of bone cortex and trabeculae with ultra-high resolution. Detailed multiplanar 2-D or 3-D images are routinely created for planning surgery of complex fractures, joint reconstruction, and bone tumors.

Biopsies:

Using minimally invasive techniques, we perform CT-directed biopsies of bone lesions and extremity soft tissue masses. (Note that we request that the referring physician consult with an orthopedic oncologic surgeon before scheduling a biopsy if there is a significant possibility that the mass may represent a primary bone or soft tissue sarcoma).

Most procedures are performed at the outpatient Clinic building with local anesthesia or mild IV sedation, however technically challenging biopsies that require moderate to heavy sedation or special instrumentation are performed at Mayo Clinic Hospital.

Treatment

We perform minimally invasive radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of both benign and malignant bone tumors under CT-guidance as an outpatient procedure at MCH. This recently developed technique has become the new standard of care for treatment of osteoid osteomas, having replaced surgical excision as the treatment of choice. Unlike surgical excision, RFA does not require removal of structurally significant bone and has a much lower complication rate.

MRI Safety

For the vast majority of patients MRI is perfectly safe. Patients with certain electronic or metal implants like cardiac pacemakers or brain aneurysm clips should not undergo an MRI. Other metal implants should be checked for safety before entering the scanning room.

Claustrophobia and "Open MRI"

Open MRI scanners do provide the patients with more headroom than our conventional, more cylindrical scanners, but they provide less optimal images. Open scanners use lower magnetic field strengths, giving less spatial resolution and soft tissue contrast. For these reasons, we do not use Open MRI scanners at Mayo Clinic Arizona.

Most patients who suffer from claustrophobia can undergo MRI comfortably with mild oral sedation (i.e., Valium). Speak with your doctor if you think you may need such medication before your MRI exam. More severe claustrophobic patients can choose to be treated with moderate sedation under the supervision of a Radiology nurse with IV medications at the Mayo Clinic Hospital.

Education

In our musculoskeletal radiology fellowship program, we prepare radiologists for careers in either academic or subspecialized private practices with a balanced training program in MRI, CT, plain radiography, and procedures. Our members also participate in Mayo Foundation and national society-sponsored radiology continuing medical education courses.

Research

The musculoskeletal imaging section is actively involved in clinical research, examining methods for improving imaging techniques and interpretation. We attend and present our findings at national subspecialty meetings. Twice in recent years, our members have won the award for "Best Scientific Research Paper" at the annual meeting of the Society of Skeletal Radiology.