What is Computerized Tomography (CT Scan)

A Computerized tomography usually combines a series of x-ray images, which will be taken from different angles around your body. In the case of deep CT scans even soft tissues inside the human body can be easily viewed and stored. 

CT scans are always better than X Rays and few ultrasound scans. On the other hand CT scans are majorly used to take the pictures of any internal injuries or damage in internal organs as well.

Here is the list of reasons why CT scans are used. 

• It has the capability to diagnose muscles and bone disorders as well. In case of bone fractures and tumors can also be identified with the help of CT scans.

• If we are worried about the tumor location CT scans will guide us through that. Not only tumor, it has the capabilities to expose blood clot and infection as well.

• In case the doctors want to do biopsy, surgery CT scan will be used without any second questions. 

• On the other hand the advanced equipment can easily detect and monitor diseases such as cancer, lung disease, heart disease and liver diseases as well.

Though CT scan is one of the finest healthcare equipment to see through the internal organs. It does have few disadvantages

• The radiation exposure when compared with CT scan and ultrasound scan. The radiation exposure will damage some parts of cells and muscle tissues. Which is not a big deal. If you are highly exposed to CT radiation on a regular basis, there are high chances we might end up with some advanced diseases.

• In case you are pregnant and you are planning to take a CT scan. You must think twice before enrolling for study. Because while pregnant there are high chances that you might harm the unborn baby which is inside your womb.

For an advanced study doctors used to give a contrast material to the patients. Some occasion the doctors tell the patient to drink the contrast material on the other hand they will send the contrast material through the vein as well to find out any problem in the valve etc., 

There are three ways an contrast material is given to a patient

• By mouth

• By injection

• By enema

By mouth:

For instance if your stomach needs to be scanned the doctors ask you to drink the contrast material.  You must drink the material and at the same time the contrast materials drink will not have a welcoming taste. 

Through Injection:

Normally a contrast agent is injected through the vein either in the arm or legs. To check the gallbladder, liver, blood vessels. 

Enema:

Contrast material is sent through rectum and with that we can easily find if there are any abnormal activities.

Conclusion:

Computed tomography is more advanced than ultrasound but if you want some of the advanced results one must focus on taking an MRI scan. 

Even a single small problem can be identified with an MRI scan when compared with CT scan. 

CT scan is compresses of rotating x-ray machines which can take cross sectional images of the body parts. 

Here are list of organs where you can take CT scan

• Head

• Spine

• Knee

• Chest

• Shoulders

• Abdomen

• Heart

During the CT scan the person will lie down in the funnel and the machines around the tunnel will take photo imaging from different angles.

Where these images are sent to the computer and the computer will put all the images in one place to find the results.

Putting all the slices together is one of the difficult jobs, which is done by the computers. There are advanced 3 D Images available at the moment, where we can see the 3d result of the particular part.

• While performing CT Scan there are list procedure we should concentrate for example we should not take any aspirin or aspirin containing compounds for at least 5 consecutive days. 

• Usually radiologists and radiographers recommend the patient not to take any food during CT and MRI procedure. This is compulsory during contrast agents. There are only a few rare conditions, like nausea, vomiting etcs., 

• Few doctors will allow you to have food, but in case the aspirin level increases during the procedure the chances of a perfect result is very limited. 

Here are the list of procedure you must focus before 1 week CT scan

• While performing a CT scan, doctors advice is to bring an additional person or supportive person with you. So you don’t have to drive home alone. 

• Your medical history is very important, in case of allergy to ct scan contrast. You must stay away from it… your doctors will guide you to how we must take it.

• Taking blood thinners like aspirin and plavix is not permitted before 1 week

• In case of pregnancy a special care will be taken, never worry there are always special things available in the medical field.

• Always remove the valuables and keep it separate. The picture from metal will lead to different output.

• There are hundreds of medications currently happening while taking CT scans, you must focus and be in healthy conditions.

• In case you need any additional information needed you must ask the radiographers or radiologist who performs the procedures.

Day during the procedure:

• Take your regular medicines for diabetes, blood pressure or any other… Always consult a doctor or your nurses.

• In case if you have performed any earlier CT Scan or MRI scan you can bring it and give it to the radiologist to cross verify the details.

• Early is always great, you must at least have 1 hr preparation time. You cannot do the test in a hurry burry

• Before the procedure starts, the doctors will ask dozens of questions… you must answer all related questions about the procedure.

• There are other procedures which use conscious sedation, you must not eat or drink at least 8 hours.

Get modern means to conduct joint replacement surgery

 The human body is a complex structure made up of multiple systems working together to run one body. One of the systems called the musculoskeletal system comprises bones, muscles and ligaments. It not only provides support to the body but also helps in locomotion. Movement is a blessing as we work only if we can move. Some mishaps like sudden hit or development of bone disease damage joints and bones leading to pain and condition where movement is ceased. To address such damages orthopedic surgeons and doctors are present. They diagnose keenly making every try to treat with medicines but when symptoms don’t disappear they recommend surgery.

Joints are much in use as they aid in movement thus they are more prone to wear and tear over time. Also, injuries due to sudden hits or twisting can damage joints. Depending on the degree of tear orthopedic surgeons either do partial or total joint replacement surgery. The procedure sounds painful as the joint is replaced but joint replacement surgery is now commenced with modern means so patients bleed less and recover quickly.

What happens in joint replacement surgery?

Joint replacement becomes mandatory when the pain is unending or getting worse day by day even after medicinal treatment. It depends on the condition of the joint whether a patient needs a replacement or not. Diseases or an accidental injury sometimes tear the joint so badly making it almost difficult to heal. For this reason, orthopedic surgeons prefer to remove the existing joint and replace it with prosthetic parts made up of ceramic, metal and plastic. The artificial joint is carefully designed to imitate the motion of a natural one.

Modern means

Surgeries like that of hip replacement surgery was quite complicated as big cuts are made on the skin to expose the joint inside. This causes a lot of blood loss and wound take a lot of time to heal. The advancement of technology and passion of Pakistani surgeons to learn modern and new things related to the field led to the introduction of modern means to conduct joint replacement surgery. Here we are talking about Arthroscopy and arthroplasty.

Let’s see what arthroscopy and arthroplasty is?

Arthroplasty

It’s the modern era surgery where the artificial joint is placed instead of the damaged or diseased natural joint. The joint is intelligently made with an amalgamation of metal, plastic and ceramics that replicate the movement of the rear joint. Bone cement is introduced to hold the components together and fix them in position. A special gun for such purpose is used that let to weld parts together in the best way possible. This procedure let the patient regain its lost motion by eliminating persisting pain. Otherwise, people before keep on living with damaged joined bearing inflammation and pain that hinder daily chores. The only use of medicine is the suggested solution before.

Arthroscopy

Another modern technology that evolved to make surgery easier with minimally invasive cuts. Under this procedure a pen-like. A tool with a camera and light on top is inserted into the small cut made over the affected joint. The orthopedic surgeon could see the inside video on the computer screen placed nearby. In this way, he can study damaged joints in detail and operate them along. This procedure proved quite helpful in treating joint pain. The patient return to the quick recovery phase soon after this procedure. Also because of small cuts, blood doesn’t waste much and chances of getting scars is also minimized. 

Imaging tests

One cannot tell the inside story with the naked eye it’s the few imaging tests that unveil the inside trauma. Although doctors try to diagnose physically at first but suggest imaging tests later to reach the root cause. The first and foremost modern test method is X-ray which gives a clear image of bones so the doctor could know any damage to bones. But the thing doesn’t end here an injury could also be crucial to muscles, ligaments and other tissues. Such minor details also need to be revealed for complete treatment. CT-scan, MRI is another advanced scanning procedure that undergoes detailed study of the musculoskeletal system. All these imaging reports help the surgeon to announce the final verdict. They build treatment strategies accordingly to help patients.

Conclusion

The world is moving fast and there’s no time to waste. Joint issues can hinder activities much which could spoil your worldly growth. To deal with such circumstances an on-time treatment that ensures quick recovery is of much importance. In the field of orthopedics, technology is evolving quickly providing the fastest solution to surgery with the use of modern machinery that helps to look upon small details inside with much precision. Joint replacement surgery in Pakistan watched a new turn as orthopedic surgeons here began to incorporate the latest technological methods. However, all is for the betterment of patients by which they can return to normal activities soon with a new painless joint.

What is the Best Way to Treat Knee Pain?

 Several methods for treat knee pain are available. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be purchased over the counter or prescribed by a doctor. These drugs have been used to reduce joint pain for many years. A new type of NSAID, called diclofenac, has been approved in the United States since 2007. This drug is available in a cream, gel, or liquid form. It is often prescribed for osteoarthritis knee pain. A natural supplement is also an effective choice.

Different Options to Treat Knee Pain

Medications may help ease pain and reduce swelling. Over-the-counter medications that reduce swelling and increase circulation may be helpful. Compression bandages and ice can also relieve pain, but be careful not to cut off circulation. Another option is elevating the foot while resting. This will help blood return to the heart and increase circulation to the knee. A heat pack or cold compress can be used if the inflammation is less severe.

Common Analgesics

Over-the-counter pain medications may be used for the relief of mild pain. Acetaminophen and Tylenol are two common analgesics. These medications reduce swelling and reduce inflammation. Be sure to consult your doctor before starting any medication, as they may cause adverse side effects. While these treatments can help treat knee pain, they are not the best options for everyone. If you have severe pain, you should visit a doctor immediately. You should consult an orthopedic surgeon who specializes in treating injuries to the joints and muscles.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a common form of alternative medicine. During the first few days of your injury, it is recommended that you rest your knee for at least one day. However, resting is not a permanent solution to your pain. As a precaution, avoid doing activities that make your knee pain worse. You should seek medical attention if your symptoms are not improving. You may also want to try ice therapy for pain reduction.

Icing the Knee

If you are experiencing pain in your knee, rest and icing the knee are the best options for treating it. Using ice reduces inflammation and pain. Apply ice therapy for twenty to thirty minutes every day for more severe cases. The ice packs should be wrapped tightly in a thin towel to protect the skin. While icing is an effective treatment for knee pain, it is only effective when activities aggravate the condition.

Ice is another good method for treating knee pain. It helps reduce swelling and reduces pain by relaxing the knee. Besides icing, you can apply frozen vegetables for relief. A compression bandage can also prevent pain from increasing. Lastly, it would help to elevate the leg to reduce swelling. Taking a Sitz chair may also help. If you cannot do so, you can try a yoga mat instead.

Beneficial for Treating Pain

While icing can be effective, ice can also be beneficial for treating pain caused by arthritis. It can help alleviate the swelling and pain by applying compression to the area. When ice is applied to the knee, it acts as an anesthetic and reduces the pain. It can also reduce swelling by elevating the foot while resting. A warm bath can be very effective for acute cases.

Foam Roller

A foam roller is an effective tool for treating knee pain. Using the foam roller to roll out tight muscles can be useful for pain relief. It is also helpful for reducing swelling. It is also important to elevate the leg to avoid stress on the knee. This is a great way to reduce the risk of a knee sprain or strain. Once this has been established, your orthopedic surgeons may recommend a more permanent treatment.

Acupuncture can be used to relieve pain in the knee. Acupuncture can help to reduce swelling and help you avoid certain activities that can make your pain worse. Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese therapy that uses hair-thin needles on the skin to treat specific ailments, including osteoarthritis. The procedure effectively reduces swelling and may lead to other complications, like an infection.