The Advantages of an MRI for Orthopedic Surgeons

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a tool that orthopedic surgeons can use when planning a patient’s surgical procedure. When coupled with a physical examination of a patient, the diagnostic accuracy of an MRI reading can be much higher than physical examination alone. 

What is an MRI?

An MRI creates a detailed picture of the body using a magnetic field, radio waves and a computer. An MRI of the knee, for example, can allow a doctor to review all parts of the knee including cartilage, tendons, muscles and more. The process is painless for the patient, and the scan usually takes only 30 minutes to an hour.

MRI is a safe and precise tool for surgeons

Using MRI over other diagnostic technologies has many benefits. An MRI much more precise than an X-ray, which takes pictures of the bones. It requires no radiation and is a safe procedure. Joint replacements and broken bone repairs are some of the most common surgeries in the U.S. The knee is one of the most complex joints in the body and supports the majority of body weight, making it susceptible to different kinds of injuries and damage. It is the joint that most often requires replacement or surgery. 

The accuracy and precision of an MRI can help diagnose conditions such as: 

• Arthritis or other degenerative joint disorders
• Damaged cartilage, ligaments or tendons
• Decreased joint motion
• Infection
• Bone fractures
• Trauma or sports-related injuries

Diagnosing problems correctly is vital, and MRI can help orthopedic surgeons do that. 

In-house MRI can increase efficiency and decrease expenses

In many orthopedic surgeons offices, a patient may have to visit a separate facility for an MRI. Authorizations, insurance paperwork, scheduling and results have to bounce from surgeon to insurance carrier to patient to MRI facilities and back again. This arrangement can cost time and money for both the surgeon and the patient. By having an in-house MRI unit, orthopedic surgeons can coordinate a patient’s MRI procedure from start to finish. The orthopedic surgeon keeps the revenue for MRI services in-office, and their patient will find the streamlined process convenient. MRI units are typically less expensive and require less space than other imaging units, which further reduce operational costs for an orthopedic surgeon. 

By using MRI to diagnose patients, especially with an in-house MRI unit, orthopedic surgeons can reduce costs and increase revenue. They can also provide accurate and convenient care all in one place for their patients, from diagnosis to surgery to follow up treatment. 

Orthopedic Corner | Leon Mead MD Orthopedic Doctor | 730 Goodlette Road North, Suite 201  Naples Florida 34102 | Phone: (239) 262-1119