Fluoroscopy better than x-rays in diagnosing certain wrist conditions

Fluoroscopy Vs. X-rays

Fluoroscopy using a low radiation dose mini C-arm has many advantages.  It is easier to manipulate and position the injured arm in order to obtain the necessary images. It is more efficient and safer than traditional x-rays since it uses less radiation, and now researchers at Maimonides Medical Center have shown that fluoroscopy is better at diagnosing ligament injuries in the wrist compared to traditional x-rays.

Dr. Jack Choueka,  Chairman of the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at Maimonides Medical Center in collaboration with one of his residence Dr. Philip Lahey evaluated 26 patients to determine which allowed for a better diagnosis of a ligament tear in the wrist. Dr. Choueka says "fluoroscopy allowed minor corrections in the position of the wrist that made diagnosis of ligament tears much more apparent"

Flouroscopy of the wrist

The study was presented at the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgery Las Vegas. Dr. Choueka now uses fluoroscopy almost exclusively for diagnosis of these conditions in his office. "There's less radiation, no processing time and it allows perfect positioning of the wrist to make an accurate diagnosis"

The research showed that gaps in the bone as small as 2mm could be diagnosed with the fluoroscopy and not with standard x-rays.

Dr. Choueka positioning the wrist for flouroscopy

As for the use of fluoroscopy in other areas Dr. Choueka says "is has become an invaluable tool for the safe accurate diagnosis of innumerable conditions in the upper extremity". It is used to diagnose fractures, ligament injuries, look for tumors and makes comparison to the other arm much easier. For kids it makes the x-ray experience much easier and even fun since the kids can see their bones moving on the screen.

Dr. Jack Choueka

Adult and Pediatric Upper Extremity Surgeon 

Chairman of Orthopaedic Surgery at Maimonides Medical Center. 

Award winning hand surgeon Dr. Jack Choueka provides treatment for

all disorders of the upper extremity, including carpal tunnel syndrome,

arthritis, trauma, rotator cuff disease, and sports-related shoulder, elbow and wrist problems. He performs state-of-the-art surgery, including shoulder, elbow and wrist replacements. Dr. Choueka is a summa cum laude graduate from State University of New York Health Science Center’s Medical School; he completed his residency in Orthopaedic Surgery at theHospital for Joint Diseases Orthopaedic Institute and his fellowship in upper extremity and microvascular surgery at the University of Chicago

 Dr. Choueka can be reached at 718-283-7400.