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Update on imaging of orthopedic infections
R D Boutin1, J Brossmann, D J Sartoris
1Department of Radiology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts 02215, USA.
Abstract:
Although the diagnosis of infection is only a small part of the orthopedist's job description, it is a important part. This article discusses the fundamentals of orthopedic infections and highlights the refinements on this topic from a radiologic perspective. In addition to reviewing the imaging appearance of musculoskeletal infections in bone and the surrounding soft tissues, we focus on the advantages and disadvantages of five imaging methods: radiography, sonography, CT, scintigraphy, and MR imaging. Finally, we review three specific situations that have garnered substantial attention in recent medical literature: chronic recurrent multifocal osteomyelitis, musculoskeletal infections in AIDS patients, and pedal infections in diabetic patients.
Insights
This review covers orthopedic infections, detailing radiologic perspectives and imaging techniques like radiography, CT, and MRI. It highlights key conditions including osteomyelitis and infections in immunocompromised or diabetic patients.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Radiology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Orthopedic infections are a critical diagnostic challenge.
- Radiologic imaging plays a vital role in diagnosing and managing these infections.
- Understanding advanced imaging techniques is essential for effective treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of orthopedic infections from a radiologic viewpoint.
- To detail the imaging characteristics of musculoskeletal infections in bone and soft tissues.
- To evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of various imaging modalities.
Main Methods:
- Review of radiologic imaging techniques including radiography, sonography, computed tomography (CT), scintigraphy, and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging.
- Analysis of imaging findings for bone and soft tissue infections.
- Discussion of specific clinical scenarios.
Main Results:
- Detailed description of the imaging appearance of musculoskeletal infections.
- Comparative analysis of the advantages and disadvantages of five major imaging methods.
- Focus on challenging cases such as chronic recurrent multifocal osteomyelitis, infections in AIDS patients, and diabetic pedal infections.
Conclusions:
- Radiologic imaging is indispensable for the diagnosis and management of orthopedic infections.
- Each imaging modality offers unique benefits and limitations that must be considered.
- Specialized imaging approaches are crucial for complex cases and specific patient populations.