A 48 year old man known to you with a long history of low back pain, presents once again with similar symptoms. He has had a previous X - ray showing degenerative disc changes 6 years earlier. What is to be done next?
Repeat X-ray should be done
X-Ray should not be repeated
If any systemic disease suspected, MRI should be done
If suspected neurological deficit CT should be done
In the absence of any 'red flag' signs, there is no indication for fuher X - rays. Red flag signs: Thoracic pain Fever Weight loss Bladder or bowel dysfunction Carcinoma history Neurological deficit Onset < 20 years or > 55 years. For neurological symptoms, MRIa best to examine just the spine. If systemic disease was suspected, CT would be best
Musculoskeletal Radiology