Table 4. Role of MRI and CT scanning in the diagnosis of PDB.

Risk-benefit balance The radiation exposure with CT scans is higher than plain x-rays or radionuclide bone scans but MRI scans do not involve radiation exposure Quality of evidence Very low. Patient values and preferences Patients with claustrophobia may prefer to avoid MRI. Costs and use of resources Both CT scans and MRI scans are considerably more expensive than plain x-rays or radionuclide bone scans. Recommendation There was insufficient evidence to recommend MRI or CT imaging for the diagnosis of PDB and neither technique is recommended for this purpose. These imaging techniques are recommended for the assessment of disease complications.