Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc.
Chapter 2 The Skeletal System 47
Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc.
Chapter 2 The Skeletal System 47
Diagnostic Tests and Procedures
A diagnostician uses different kinds of tools and methods to aid in
pinpointing the cause of patients’ health problems. Following are some
of the most common tests and procedures used to diagnose (identify)
diseases and conditions of the skeletal system.
Test/Procedure Defi nition
arthroscopy
ar-THRAHS-koh-pee
arthr/o = joint
-scopy = visual examination
using a scope
Visual examination of a joint using a
scope (Figure 2.29).
bone density test X-ray test that determines loss of, or
changes in, bone density. It is used to
diagnose diseases such as osteomalacia,
osteoporosis, and osteopenia. Also
called bone densitometry (den-sih-TAH-
muh-tree) (Figure 2.30).
Figure 2.29 Arthroscopy.
Cannula
Arthroscope
(camera and
light source)
Knee
Arthroscopic
(surgical)
instrument
Figure 2.30 Bone density test.