Columbia, Mo.-based MU Healthcare is using new MRI technology to better detect spine fractures in teen athletes, according to an April 16 report by NBC affiliate KY3.
The system is seeing a rise in low back pain among young athletes, with nearly half of cases linked to stress fractures in the spine, also known as pars injuries.
These fractures are often difficult to identify and can require multiple MRI and CT scans, increasing costs, delaying treatment and exposing patients to radiation near reproductive organs, according to the report.
The new MRI software improves fracture visibility on the first scan, allowing for earlier intervention and reducing the risk of long-term back pain. It may also help athletes return to competition more quickly.
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