Advanced Imaging

Advanced imaging for orthopaedic cancers includes using the most technologically advanced diagnostic imaging equipment available to take pictures and see inside the human body. This gives doctors the most accurate picture of the location of a tumor, and indicates the possible spread of cancer.

What are the imaging tests used to diagnose bone and soft tissue sarcomas?

• X-rays 
• CT scan examines the affected area from a variety of angles, and creates a computer-generated detailed picture.
• MRI uses a magnet to create a detailed picture of the affected area.
• PET scan, where a doctor injects and then tracks radioactive tagged glucose path through your body, creating a computer-generated detailed picture of the area and entire body.
• Bone scan, which is an injection of radioactively-tagged technicium detects areas of activity within the skeleton.
• Angiogram, an X-ray of the blood vessels taken after injection of contrast dye.

What kind of technology does Washington Cancer Institute at MedStar Washington Hospital Center have?

• Combined PET/CT scan, which performs the PET and the CT scan at the same time
• 256 slice and 64-slice CT scanners, allowing for unparalleled speed, detail and precision of bone and lungs
• Three TESLA MRI scanners, allowing for multiplanar (on different planes) views of soft tissue throughout the body
• Titan MRI scanner, permitting imaging of very large patients
• Bone scanners
• Digital X-ray imaging, which uses less radiation than standard X-rays to obtain bone images

Who will read my results?
At the Orthopaedic Oncology Center, your orthopaedic oncologist specializes in reading, understanding and interpreting these studies.  A team of dedicated musculoskeletal radiologists reviews all images.

Our team carefully assesses all radiology studies as part of your evaluation and incorporates the findings into your treatment regimen.  The team arranges for any further studies or tests that may be needed to complete an evaluation. Learn more about orthopaedic radiology review.

Do I need to be admitted to the hospital for imaging tests?
Most tests are performed on an outpatient basis. Occasionally patients are admitted if they need many tests.

How long will it take to receive my results?
The results of scans are typically available the same day. For very complex studies, such as PET/CT scans, results are often available the next day.