Sciatica is a condition that affects the sciatic nerve, which is the largest nerve in the body. It runs down the back of each leg and innervates different muscles in the leg, as well as the foot and ankle. This condition can cause a range of symptoms, including pain, tingling, numbness, and weakness in the affected leg.
When a patient presents with symptoms that may suggest sciatica, the doctor will perform a thorough physical examination. During this examination, the doctor will ask about the patient’s symptoms, medical history, and any other relevant information. They will also examine the patient’s back, legs, and feet to look for signs of nerve damage, such as muscle weakness or loss of sensation.
In addition to the physical examination, the doctor may also order imaging tests for further evaluation. These may include X-rays or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, which can provide detailed images of the spine and surrounding tissues. These tests can help the doctor identify any underlying causes of the patient’s symptoms, such as a herniated disc or spinal stenosis.
Once the doctor has gathered enough information to make a diagnosis, they will recommend an appropriate course of treatment. This may include medications, physical therapy, or other forms of treatment to help manage the patient’s symptoms and improve their quality of life.
Overall, confirming the presence of sciatica requires a careful evaluation of the patient’s symptoms, a thorough physical examination, and the use of imaging tests to identify any underlying causes. By working closely with their doctor, patients with sciatica can receive effective treatment and regain their mobility and comfort.
Can a doctor tell if its sciatic nerve?
Yes, a doctor can identify the presence of sciatic nerve pain based on certain symptoms and signs. To begin with, the sciatic nerve is one of the largest and longest nerves in the body that runs from the lower back down to the feet. When it gets irritated or inflamed, it can cause a sharp and shooting pain that radiates down to the legs, feet, and toes.
A doctor can diagnose sciatic nerve pain by assessing the patient’s medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic imaging tests. During a physical exam, the doctor may ask the patient to perform certain movements to check for pain and weakness, such as bending or lifting the legs, and checking the reflexes.
Moreover, the doctor may conduct imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, MRI, and nerve conduction studies to identify the underlying cause of the pain, such as a herniated disc, arthritis or spinal stenosis.
Other symptoms that a doctor may observe to diagnose sciatic nerve pain can be loss of sensation, muscle weakness, or difficulty in controlling bladder and bowel movements.
Therefore, a doctor is well-equipped to determine if the pain is caused by sciatic nerve compression and develop a treatment plan accordingly. Treatment options can range from conservative therapies such as rest, heat or ice therapy, physiotherapy, and medications. In severe cases, surgery may be required to relieve the pressure on the sciatic nerve, but this is typically only recommended if more conservative treatments have failed.
Sciatic nerve pain can be diagnosed by a doctor by observing certain symptoms, conducting physical exams, and through diagnostic imaging tests, making treatment possible after determining the underlying cause.
What can be mistaken for sciatic nerve?
The sciatic nerve is the longest and thickest nerve in the human body. It begins at the lower end of the spinal cord and passes through the hips, buttocks, and thigh before dividing into two branches behind the knee. Any condition that compresses or irritates the sciatic nerve can result in sciatica, which is characterized by pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness in the buttock, leg, or foot.
However, there are other conditions that can mimic or be mistaken for sciatica. These conditions may affect the same area of the body or produce similar symptoms, but they originate from different sources or mechanisms. Here are some of the conditions that can be mistaken for sciatic nerve:
1. Piriformis syndrome: The piriformis muscle is a small muscle located deep in the buttock. It is responsible for the outward rotation of the hip joint. In some people, the sciatic nerve passes through or under the piriformis muscle instead of over it. If the piriformis muscle becomes tight or inflamed, it can put pressure on the sciatic nerve and cause sciatic-like symptoms.
However, unlike true sciatica, piriformis syndrome usually affects only one side of the body, and the pain may be more localized or stabbing.
2. Lumbar spinal stenosis: Spinal stenosis refers to the narrowing of the spinal canal, which can compress the spinal cord or nerve roots. Lumbar spinal stenosis is a common condition in older adults, especially those with degenerative disc disease or arthritis. The symptoms may include back pain, leg pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness, which may resemble sciatica.
However, lumbar spinal stenosis may also cause symptoms when standing or walking, and the pain may improve when sitting or bending forward.
3. Herniated disc: A herniated or bulging disc occurs when the soft center of a spinal disc pushes through a crack in the outer layer, putting pressure on the adjacent nerve root. While most herniated discs occur in the lower back, they can also occur in the neck. The symptoms may include neck or back pain, radiating pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness, depending on the location and severity of the herniation.
Some herniated discs can mimic sciatica, but the pain may not follow the classic distribution or severity of true sciatica.
4. Tumors: Although rare, tumors in the spine or pelvis can put pressure on the sciatic nerve or its roots and cause sciatic-like symptoms. The tumors may be benign or malignant and may originate from any tissue in the body. The symptoms may include pain, weakness, or numbness that worsens over time, as well as other signs of cancer, such as weight loss, fatigue, or fever.
5. Peripheral neuropathy: Peripheral neuropathy refers to damage or dysfunction of the peripheral nerves outside the brain and spinal cord. It can result from various causes, such as diabetes, infection, chemotherapy, or alcoholism. The symptoms may include numbness, tingling, burning, or shooting pain in the feet, legs, or hands.
In some cases, peripheral neuropathy can also affect the sciatic nerve, causing sciatic-like symptoms. However, the symptoms usually affect both sides of the body symmetrically and may not improve with stretching or movement.
While sciatica is a common condition that affects millions of people, it is not the only condition that can cause pain, numbness, or weakness in the buttock, leg, or foot. Other conditions that can mimic or be mistaken for sciatica include piriformis syndrome, lumbar spinal stenosis, herniated disc, tumors, and peripheral neuropathy.
Therefore, it is essential to obtain a proper diagnosis and treatment plan from a healthcare professional to ensure the best outcome for your condition.
What causes sciatica to flare up?
Sciatica is a type of pain that usually affects one side of the body and radiates through the path of the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back down to the legs. One may experience sciatica pain following an injury or compression on the sciatic nerve. Sciatica can also flare-up due to several underlying causes, some of which are discussed below.
Herniated Disc: A herniated disc is a condition that occurs when the soft center of the spinal disc pushes through the outer shell and compresses nearby nerves. When the herniated disc is located in the lower back, it can press on the sciatic nerve root, resulting in sciatica pain. If someone with a herniated disc moves suddenly or lifts something heavy, the pressure on the sciatic nerve can increase, causing a flare-up.
Sedentary Lifestyle: A sedentary lifestyle is one of the most common causes of sciatica flare-ups. Sitting for extended periods, especially in an improper posture, puts a lot of pressure on the lower back, hips, and legs, causing them to stiffen up. When the muscles around the sciatic nerve become stiff, it can compress the sciatic nerve and trigger sciatica pain.
Spinal Stenosis: Spinal stenosis is a condition where the spinal canal narrows, putting pressure on the spinal cord or surrounding nerves. When the sciatic nerve is compressed, it can lead to sciatica pain or a flare-up of the condition. Spinal stenosis is commonly found in older adults or people with arthritis.
Weight Gain: Carrying extra weight puts pressure on the lower back and hips, and this can compress nearby nerves, resulting in sciatic pain. Weight gain can cause patients to exert more pressure on their joints, leading to an increase in the frequency and intensity of the flare-up.
Muscle Strain: Injuries or strains to the muscles around the lower back can cause inflammation around the sciatic nerve, requiring longer healing time, which can cause a flare-up of sciatica.
Overall, sciatica flare-ups can be triggered by multiple underlying causes. However, it is essential to visit a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan. Usually, treatment for sciatica includes physical therapy, medication, or surgery, depending on the underlying cause and individual symptoms.
Can sciatica be diagnosed without MRI?
Yes, sciatica can be diagnosed without an MRI. However, this would require a thorough physical examination of the patient’s symptoms, medical history, and a series of tests that the doctor may perform to verify the diagnosis.
Sciatica is a condition that causes pain, numbness, or tingling sensations in the lower back, glutes, and legs due to compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve. It can be caused by various factors such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, or an injury to the lower back.
During a physical examination, the doctor may ask the patient to perform certain movements or tests to check for a range of motion, muscle strength, and reflexes. They may also apply pressure to certain areas of the back and legs to identify the location of the pain or numbness.
In addition, specific diagnostic tests like electromyography (EMG) or nerve conduction velocity (NCV) tests may be performed to measure the conduction of electrical impulses along the sciatic nerve. These tests can detect abnormal nerve function, muscle weakness or atrophy, and provide additional clues to the underlying cause of the sciatica.
Moreover, the patient’s medical history can also provide information about the onset, duration, and severity of the symptoms, as well as any previous episodes of back or leg pain. This information may help the doctor determine the predisposing factors that may have contributed to the development of sciatica.
Although an MRI can provide a detailed image of the spinal cord, discs, and other structures that may be causing the sciatic nerve compression, it is not always necessary for the diagnosis of sciatica. However, an MRI may be recommended if the symptoms persist or worsen despite conservative treatment, or if the doctor suspects a more complex structural abnormality that requires surgical intervention.
While an MRI is an excellent tool for diagnosing sciatica, it is not always necessary to diagnose it. There are several other methods that a doctor may use to diagnose and manage sciatica without an MRI. However, it is critical to seek medical attention promptly if you are experiencing symptoms of sciatica to receive an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
What injury is similar to sciatica?
Sciatica is a common condition that causes pain, tingling and numbness in the lower back and the legs. It is caused by a compression of the sciatic nerve, which is the largest nerve in our body. Sciatica is a unique condition in that it affects only one side of the body, and it gets worse when you sit or stand for extended periods.
There are several different types of injuries that are similar to sciatica. One such injury is herniated discs. Herniated discs can be caused by excessive pressure on the spine, which leads to the disc material being pushed out of place. This results in pressure being applied to the nerves and can result in pain similar to sciatica.
Another injury similar to sciatica is piriformis syndrome. This occurs when the piriformis muscle, which is located in the buttocks, becomes tight or inflamed. The sciatic nerve runs through the piriformis muscle, and when it is inflamed, it can cause pain and discomfort similar to sciatica.
Spinal stenosis is another injury similar to sciatica. This condition is characterized by a narrowing of the spinal canal, which can put pressure on the nerves in the lower back. This pressure can lead to pain, numbness, and weakness in the legs, which is similar to the symptoms of sciatica.
Finally, degenerative disc disease can also be similar to sciatica. This occurs when the spinal discs lose their cushioning ability due to wear and tear over time. This can cause pressure to be placed on the nerves in the lower back and legs, leading to pain and discomfort similar to sciatica.
There are several types of injuries that are similar to sciatica, including herniated discs, piriformis syndrome, spinal stenosis and degenerative disc disease. It is important to consult a medical professional to determine the best course of treatment for any of these injuries.
How do you tell if back pain is sciatica or something else?
Back pain is a common symptom experienced by many individuals, and it can be caused by various factors. One of the causes of back pain includes sciatica, a condition characterized by discomfort, pain, or numbness in the lower back region that radiates down to the legs. Sciatica is caused by the compression of the sciatic nerve, which extends from the lower back to the legs.
However, it can be challenging to differentiate between sciatica and other causes of back pain. Here are the key factors to consider when trying to tell if back pain is sciatica or not.
Pain location and pattern
Sciatica pain is typically felt in the lower back region, thighs, and legs. It typically affects only one side of the body, although it may affect both sides in some cases. The pain may be severe, constant, or sporadic, and may worsen after sitting or standing for an extended period. Other causes of back pain may be felt in specific areas of the back, such as the upper back, neck, or shoulders, and the pain may be a dull ache or sharp stabbing sensation.
Any accompanying symptoms
Sciatica may be accompanied by additional symptoms such as tingling, numbness, or muscle weakness in the affected leg. These symptoms are caused by the nerve compression and can be used to differentiate between sciatica and other causes of back pain. For instance, if the pain is associated with weakness or numbness in the leg, it could be indicative of sciatica.
Duration of the pain
Sciatica pain may last for several weeks or even months, depending on the severity of the nerve compression. Therefore, if the pain has been consistent for an extended period, it could be indicative of sciatica. On the other hand, more acute conditions such as back strains or sprains usually last a few days to weeks.
Medical history and factors
Your medical history and certain factors may also help to differentiate between sciatica and other causes of back pain. For instance, if you have a history of spinal cord injury, herniated or bulging discs, or have undergone back surgery recently, it could suggest that back pain may be sciatica. Other factors such as prolonged sitting, pregnancy, and obesity may also increase the risk of sciatica.
Identifying whether back pain is sciatica or something else can be challenging. However, keeping the above factors in mind will help to determine whether the pain is sciatica or another condition. If you are unsure, it is crucial to seek medical attention to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment plan to alleviate the pain.
What can sciatic pain be compared to?
Sciatic pain is a type of pain that is often compared to a sharp, shooting pain or an electric shock-like sensation. Many people describe it as a burning or tingling pain that radiates down the back of one or both legs, starting from the lower back and buttocks.
The pain is caused by pressure or irritation on the sciatic nerve, the longest and thickest nerve in the body that runs from the lower back through the hips, buttocks, and down each leg. The nerve can become compressed or pinched due to a variety of reasons, such as a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, or even pregnancy.
People who suffer from sciatic pain often compare it to other types of pain, such as a toothache, a muscle cramp, or a stabbing pain. The pain can be severe and debilitating, making it difficult to perform everyday activities such as walking, standing, or sitting for prolonged periods.
Furthermore, sciatic pain can affect other areas of the body too, such as the lower back, hips, and buttocks. It can also cause numbness, weakness, or a pins-and-needles sensation in the affected leg. The pain can be constant or intermittent, and it can range from mild discomfort to excruciating agony.
Overall, sciatic pain is a highly unpleasant and distressing type of pain that can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. It’s crucial to seek medical attention if you experience any symptoms of sciatic pain to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.
How do I know if I have piriformis or sciatica?
Piriformis syndrome and sciatica are two different conditions that can cause similar symptoms, making it difficult for individuals to distinguish one from the other. Piriformis syndrome is characterized by the compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve by the piriformis muscle, which is located deep in the buttock region.
On the other hand, sciatica is a symptom of an underlying health condition such as a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or degenerative disc disease, where the sciatic nerve is impinged or damaged, leading to pain, numbness, or tingling sensations down the leg.
The common symptoms of piriformis syndrome and sciatica include buttock pain that radiates down the leg, pain that worsens when sitting for extended periods or during physical activity, a tingling or burning sensation in the leg or foot, and muscle weakness. However, there are some key differences between the two conditions that can help you distinguish one from the other.
If the pain is mostly concentrated in the buttocks and does not extend beyond the knee, it may be a sign of piriformis syndrome. This condition often results in tenderness in the piriformis muscle, which can be diagnosed through a physical exam by a medical professional. Additionally, piriformis syndrome can be triggered by activities that require repetitive or prolonged movements of the hip, such as running, cycling or sitting at a desk for extended periods.
Alternatively, if the pain extends beyond the knee and down to the feet, it is more likely to be sciatica. This pain is usually caused by the compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve and can be diagnosed through imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI scans. Other symptoms of sciatica may include weakness, numbness, or a prickly feeling in the affected leg or foot.
If you are experiencing pain in your buttocks, hips, and legs, it is important to consult a medical professional to identify the root cause of the pain. They can help diagnose the condition through physical examinations, imaging tests, and other diagnostic tools to develop a treatment plan to manage the pain and prevent further complications.
Which leg hurts with sciatica?
Sciatica is a medical condition that affects the sciatic nerve, which is the longest nerve in the body that runs from the lower back through the hips and buttocks and down each leg. This problem arises when the nerve is compressed or pinched due to several reasons such as herniated disc, spinal stenosis, piriformis syndrome, or any other injury to the back or leg.
The pain and discomfort associated with sciatica can vary in intensity and location, depending on the underlying cause and individual factors. However, in most cases, the pain is felt down one leg or sometimes both legs, and it usually starts in the lower back or buttocks and extends all the way to the foot.
The leg that is affected by sciatica typically depends on the location of the compressed or irritated nerve. If the nerve is being compressed in the lumbar spine, the pain is usually felt on one side of the lower back, buttocks, and the back of the thigh, calf or foot on the same side. For instance, if the left sciatic nerve is compressed, the pain will occur in the left leg.
In some rare cases, sciatica may affect both legs simultaneously causing bilateral pain and discomfort. It is important to note that sciatic pain may vary in intensity and quality, it could be a sharp, burning, tingling, or numbing sensation.
The leg that experiences pain with sciatica varies depending on which side the sciatic nerve is affected. Therefore, proper diagnosis and treatment by a healthcare professional are crucial to alleviate the pain and prevent further complications.
What is false sciatica?
False sciatica refers to a condition where a person experiences pain and discomfort in their lower back and legs that mimics the symptoms of sciatica but is caused by a different underlying issue. Sciatica is typically caused by a compressed or pinched sciatic nerve, which runs down the back of the leg and can cause pain, numbness, or tingling sensations.
However, false sciatica is caused by other factors such as muscle strains, injuries to the hip or knee joints, and spinal stenosis.
The symptoms of false sciatica can be similar to those of true sciatica, including back pain, leg pain, and numbness or tingling sensations. However, there are some key differences between the two conditions. While sciatica is caused by a pinched nerve, false sciatica is typically caused by muscle or joint issues.
The pain in false sciatica is usually confined to one side of the body, whereas sciatica can affect both legs. Additionally, the pain caused by false sciatica tends to be less severe and less persistent than sciatica.
Treating false sciatica typically involves addressing the underlying issue that is causing the pain. If the pain is caused by a muscle strain or injury, for example, rest and physical therapy may be necessary to help the muscle or joint heal. In some cases, anti-inflammatory medications or painkillers may also be prescribed to help manage pain and discomfort.
While false sciatica is generally less serious than true sciatica, it is still important to seek medical attention if you are experiencing persistent pain or discomfort in your lower back and legs. Your doctor can help diagnose the underlying issue and recommend the appropriate treatment plan to alleviate your symptoms and help you feel more comfortable.
Can a chiropractor help sciatica?
Sciatica is a medical condition characterized by pain radiating from the lower back to the buttocks, legs, and feet. It is often caused by compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve, which is the longest nerve in the human body. While medical intervention may be necessary for severe cases, conservative treatments like chiropractic care can benefit those suffering from sciatica.
Chiropractors are trained medical professionals who specialize in diagnosing, treating and preventing musculoskeletal and nervous system disorders, including sciatica. They use various non-invasive techniques such as spinal adjustments, massage therapy, and electrical stimulation to alleviate the pain of their patients.
These techniques aim to reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and restore spinal alignment, which can improve the function of the nervous system and reduce sciatic nerve irritation.
Spinal adjustments are the primary treatment that chiropractors use to alleviate sciatica pain. They involve using their hands or a specialized instrument to apply pressure to joints that have become misaligned. These adjustments help to decrease inflammation and restore motion in the affected area.
In addition to spinal adjustments, chiropractors may also use massage therapy to improve blood flow and loosen the muscles surrounding the sciatic nerve.
Chiropractors may also recommend lifestyle changes and exercises to help alleviate the symptoms of sciatica. For example, they may recommend stretches or exercises that target the lower back and leg muscles to help reduce tension and improve flexibility. They may also advise their patients on proper posture and body mechanics, which can help to prevent future sciatic nerve irritation.
Overall, chiropractic care can be an effective treatment for sciatica. While it may not be suitable for everyone, it is a low-risk, non-invasive alternative to surgery or medication. If you’re suffering from sciatica, consider speaking with your doctor about the benefits of chiropractic care.
Is sciatica hard to diagnose?
Sciatica is a condition that often results from compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve, which is the largest nerve in the body. Symptoms of sciatica include pain, numbness, and tingling sensations that radiate from the lower back through the buttocks and down the legs. However, diagnosing sciatica can sometimes be challenging, as its symptoms can mimic those of other spinal conditions.
One of the primary reasons why sciatica can be hard to diagnose is because there are many potential causes of the condition. These can include spinal stenosis, herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, osteoarthritis, and more. Because these conditions can all cause similar symptoms to sciatica, it’s crucial for doctors to conduct a thorough examination and run proper tests to rule out other conditions.
Another factor that can make diagnosis challenging is that the pain associated with sciatica can be unpredictable and may come-and-go. In some cases, pain may be severe and debilitating, while in others, it may be more intermittent and mild. This variation in symptoms can make it tough to pinpoint the exact cause of pain and to determine whether it is associated with sciatica.
Doctors typically use several diagnostic tools to confirm whether a patient has sciatica, including a physical exam, imaging tests like X-rays, MRI, or CT scans, and nerve conduction studies. During the physical exam, a doctor will assess a patient’s range of motion, reflexes, and muscle strength, as well as perform tests to reproduce the patient’s pain.
Imaging tests like X-rays and MRI scans can help a doctor visualize the spine and rule out other conditions that may be causing pain. A nerve conduction study may also be conducted to measure the electrical signals in the nerves, which can help determine the severity of nerve damage.
While diagnosing sciatica can be challenging, with proper examination, diagnostic tests, and elimination of other potential conditions, doctors can confirm a diagnosis and help patients find the most effective treatment plan. It’s important for individuals experiencing sciatica-like symptoms to seek medical attention promptly to ensure a speedy and accurate diagnosis.
Who is the person to see for sciatica?
The person to see for sciatica depends on the cause and severity of the condition. Sciatica is a condition that causes pain, numbness, or weakness in the lower back and legs due to irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve. There can be several underlying causes of sciatica, such as a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, or pelvic injury.
If you experience mild sciatica symptoms that improve with self-care measures such as rest, physical therapy, stretching, or over-the-counter pain relief medications, you may not need to see a doctor immediately. However, if you experience severe, persistent, or worsening sciatica pain, or if you have bowel or bladder problems, loss of sensation, or muscle weakness in the legs, you should seek medical attention promptly.
Your primary care physician can evaluate your symptoms, perform a physical exam, and order imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans to diagnose the underlying cause of your sciatica. If needed, your doctor may refer you to a specialist such as a neurologist, an orthopedic surgeon, or a physiatrist, who has expertise in treating spinal or nerve conditions.
A neurologist specializes in treating nerve disorders and can perform nerve conduction studies or electromyography (EMG) tests to evaluate the function of your sciatic nerve. An orthopedic surgeon specializes in treating musculoskeletal conditions and can perform surgery if non-surgical treatments are ineffective or if you have a severe spinal injury.
A physiatrist or a physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist can develop a tailored rehabilitation program to help manage your sciatica symptoms and improve your function and quality of life.
The person to see for sciatica depends on the severity, duration, and underlying cause of your symptoms. It is important to seek medical attention promptly if you experience severe or worsening sciatica pain, or if you have any concerns about your symptoms. Your primary care physician can refer you to a specialist if needed, who can provide you with individualized treatment options based on your specific condition and needs.
Is MRI or CT scan better for sciatica?
Both MRI and CT scan are effective diagnostic tools for sciatica. However, the type of scan that is recommended for an individual may depend on their specific medical situation.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a commonly used scanning method for sciatica, especially when there is a need to capture highly detailed images of the body’s interior. It uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to create 3D images of the body’s tissues and structures. This method is very precise, and it can provide a detailed look at the nerves, spinal cord, and any potential sources of inflammation, such as herniated discs, that may be contributing to the patient’s symptoms.
On the other hand, computed tomography (CT) scans are slightly less detailed than MRIs, but they provide a different perspective. CT scans use X-rays to produce detailed images from various angles, creating a 3D model of the body’s interior. This imaging technique can determine if there are any bony abnormalities or spinal stenosis, which are not visible on MRI due to their lack of contrast.
Additionally, CT images can be taken faster than MRI images, allowing for a quicker diagnosis and treatment plan.
Overall, both MRI and CT scans are effective imaging methods for diagnosing sciatica. However, the best scan for an individual patient may depend on their specific case and symptoms. In some instances, a combination of both MRI and CT may provide more accurate results, allowing for a more effective treatment plan.
Therefore, consulting with a medical professional is highly recommended to determine the best imaging method for each patient’s unique case.
