MI-EYE DIAGNOSTIC IMAGING
Mi-Eye Diagnostic Imaging is a disposable needle with a fully integrated camera enabling physicians to use advanced diagnostic imaging to visualize joint injuries. This procedure is a type of simplified arthroscopy (joint scoping) that allows a specialist to diagnose a joint problem in the doctor’s office. The test enables patients to learn the cause of their orthopedic pain immediately, rather than having to wait for the results of an MRI.
In the procedure, the orthopedist numbs the joint area with a local anesthetic and inserts a needle that has a tiny (2 millimeter) camera with a light source. The specialist can move this mini arthroscope (joint scope) to different positions and angles to inspect the bone, cartilage, tendons, ligaments and other structures in the joint. The doctor views and captures images on a tablet connected to the needle scope by a data cable. The orthopedist uses these images for later reference and to share with the patient in reviewing the source of joint pain. The test takes about 10 minutes. After the doctor pulls the needle out, a bandage is put on the injection site. No recovery is needed for this diagnostic test.
With the new technology, patients may avoid the need to schedule an MRI, which is much more expensive than an evaluation by Mi-Eye and requires two additional appointments. With a real-time look at the patient’s joint during the initial evaluation, orthopedic specialists can diagnose injuries immediately and set up a treatment plan, and/or a surgery date, sooner. Orthopedic surgeons can also use Mi-Eye to make injections into the knee, remove debris and evaluate results and healing in a surgically repaired joint.
In some cases, digital radiography requires less radiation to achieve an image of similar contrast and clarity than that of traditional film-based radiography.
