Some hand conditions need to be diagnosed through surgery. It depends on what is causing
the condition. In general, a hand condition may need the following procedures to help
in the diagnosis:
In some cases, a diagnosis can be made simply based on a physical exam. But you may
need the following tests to help confirm the diagnosis, or the extent of the problem:
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Arthrography. A contrast dye is injected into the hand to allow the healthcare provider to better
see the joints on X-ray.
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Bone scan (bone scintigraphy). A slightly radioactive substance (radiotracer, technetium) is injected into a vein,
and images are taken to show how the tracer has entered various tissues and structures.
The study is often done in phases and may take several hours. Images of the hand are
taken at different times after the tracer is injected.
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CT scan. This test uses X-rays and a computer to make detailed images of the body. It can
look at the bones, muscles, fat, and organs. CT scans are more detailed than general
X-rays.
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Electromyogram (EMG). This test measures the electrical activity of a muscle or a group of muscles. An EMG
can find abnormal electrical muscle activity caused by diseases and nervous system
conditions.
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MRI. This test uses large magnets, radiofrequencies, and a computer to make detailed images
of organs and structures in the body. It lets the healthcare provider see the tendons,
ligaments, vessels, and nerves in the hand.
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Ultrasound (sonography). This imaging test uses high-frequency sound waves and a computer to make images of
blood vessels, tissues, and organs. Ultrasounds are used to see internal organs as
they function. It can see blood flow through various vessels. In the hand, ultrasound
is useful for finding fluid collections, such as cysts.
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Video fluoroscopy. This test lets your healthcare provider see how your hand moves by recording the movement
with an X-ray video for repeated viewing. The image is displayed on a screen.
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X-ray. This test uses electromagnetic radiation to make images of internal tissues, bones,
and organs.