Papineni VRK, Mariathas M, Sidhu SS, Chari B. Imaging modalities for non-acute pathologies of the foot and ankle.
J Clin Orthop Trauma 2024;
48:102329. [PMID:
38299021 PMCID:
PMC10826320 DOI:
10.1016/j.jcot.2023.102329]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Chronic foot and ankle pain, in contrast to acute traumatic injuries, presents a diagnostic challenge due to its diverse underlying causes. Accurate diagnosis often necessitates the utilization of various imaging modalities, emphasizing the importance of selecting the most appropriate one. The intricate structure of the foot, composed of multiple bones and supported by soft tissues like ligaments and plantar fascia, gives rise to a spectrum of mechanical disorders, including stress fractures, plantar fasciitis, Morton's neuroma, and more. In addition to mechanical issues, non-acute abnormalities encompass inflammatory diseases affecting tendons and joints, benign tumors, tumor-like lesions, vascular abnormalities, and others. This article reviews the indispensable role of imaging in the assessment of these conditions, with a focus on plain radiography, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and nuclear medicine studies, tailored to the specific clinical presentation. By providing insights into the selection and interpretation of imaging modalities, this article aims to assist clinicians in achieving accurate diagnoses and optimizing patient care for nonacute foot and ankle pathologies.
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