Imaging Services

Both traditional and advanced imaging modalities are valuable tools for the diagnosis and monitoring of rheumatologic conditions. Traditional radiography remains the cornerstone of diagnostic imaging for osteoarthritis, and provides important information for a wide spectrum of other rheumatic disorders, such as staging rheumatoid arthritis and detecting compression fractures in patients with osteoporosis. Advanced imaging modalities are typically able to provide additional resolution and details that are not identifiable by traditional methods. As an example, MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is able to identify injured soft tissues, such as cartilage, tendon, and ligament, in the event that traditional X-rays are unable to detect the reason for pain or other joint problems.

Advanced imaging in rheumatology goes well beyond the identification of bone and joint structures. MRI and PET (Positron Emission Tomography) are able to detect inflammation, and by so doing can provide important information regarding the state of activity of a number of inflammatory rheumatologic conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis and vasculitis, when more traditional methods do not provide adequate information. Such is the important role that diagnostic imaging plays in rheumatology.

Diagnostic Imaging at Vanguard Rheumatology Partners

Located on campus, the Mount Sinai Department of Radiology offers a full spectrum of cutting-edge imaging services. An on-site board-certified radiology subspecialist team that includes a dedicated musculoskeletal radiologist ensures expert interpretation of imaging studies. Because Mount Sinai radiologists work on-site, they are able to review and interpret results in partnership with our rheumatologists, which translates into more timely and accurate diagnoses and initiation of treatment.

Digital radiography (X-ray)
MRI (open and closed MRI are available)
Multi-slice CT (Computerized Tomography)
PET (Positron Emission Tomography)
Bone Scintigraphy (Nuclear Bone Scan)

In the event that Mount Sinai Medical Center is not an “in-network” provider for your health insurance plan, alternative arrangements at an in-network facility will be made.

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