10 months post core decompressionPart of my evaluation in Utah included a CT scan for 3D reconstruction of my hip. This is such amazing technology that allows surgeons the ability to see the bones of the body in their full and actual shape/orientation within the body. (Make sure to take a peek at the slideshow below!) This study, unfortunately, did not offer much diagnostic value for me. There were some signs of FAI, but this abnormality did not match my clinical presentation. Plus, FAI was previously resolved in the first surgery I had, which made this even more unlikely. Imaging can be a wonderful tool for diagnosing pathology that we are unable to see with the naked eye. HOWEVER, it is so important to correlate radiographic abnormalities with the patient's symptoms. Just because something is structurally abnormal, it does not necessarily indicate SYMPTOMATIC pathology. In my case, for example, if FAI was the driving factor behind my symptoms, I would expect the majority of my pain to be associated with sitting and squatting activities. My chief complaint, though, was pain with prolonged standing and walking- both of which are inconsistent with the diagnosis of FAI. Because of his mismatch between diagnostic imaging and clinical presentation, FAI should not be considered in the differential. As I was in the process of moving back to Colorado, I decided to continue this evaluation back home. Dr. Mei-Dan has been with me through all of these hip shenanigans and, at the end of the day, I wouldn't want anyone else operating on me. I forwarded him imaging done out in Utah and he placed orders for another MRI out in Colorado. Between these imaging studies, consideration of my past medical/surgical history and current symptom presentation, we came up with a few scenarios that may be contributing to my pain. However, because all of these imaging studies were only suggestive of various pathology (not conclusive or diagnostic), the upcoming hip scope is going to be somewhat of an "exploratory" procedure. Surgery set for September 25th... wish me luck!
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorJust a physical therapist and her journey being on the other side rehab. Categories
All
Archives
October 2017
|