What to prepare
A radiology report is useful, but the orthopedic surgeon may also need the original images. Prepare:
- the MRI or CT study in its original DICOM format;
- the radiology report as a PDF or a clear photograph;
- relevant X-rays;
- previous operation reports and implant details;
- a short note explaining where the pain is, when it started, what makes it worse and which treatments you have tried.
If the study is on a disc, open it on a computer and look for a folder containing many files and a file named DICOMDIR. Copy the entire contents into one folder and create a ZIP archive. Do not convert every image to JPEG because clinically relevant image data may be lost.
How to create the archive
- Copy the entire study folder from the disc or USB drive.
- Do not remove unfamiliar files or change the folder structure.
- Compress the folder as ZIP; one archive per study is usually easiest to review.
- Use a clear filename, for example: Smith_hip_CT_2026-07-10.zip.
- Attach the report and earlier studies separately if comparison over time is needed.
What information to include
Provide the patient's name, age, body area examined, study date and the reason for the consultation. Mention relevant previous surgery, trauma and treatment. Do not place records belonging to different patients in the same archive.
How to transfer the files
Use the “Upload files” option on the treatment review page. Check the filename and your contact details before submitting the form. Avoid publicly shared cloud folders and never post medical images or links on social media.
What happens after submission
The files are checked to make sure they can be opened and are sufficient for review. If the archive is damaged, original images are missing or the study does not answer the clinical question, the team may ask you to resend it or obtain another examination.
A preliminary image review helps the doctor prepare for the consultation. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace an in-person assessment, physical examination or correlation of imaging findings with your symptoms.
When to seek urgent care
Do not wait for an online review if you have severe pain after an injury, an obvious deformity, inability to bear weight, increasing numbness or weakness, fever, or worsening symptoms after surgery. Seek urgent in-person medical care.
Quick checklist
- the DICOM archive opens;
- the report is readable;
- the date and body area are included;
- symptoms and consultation goal are explained;
- contact details are correct.
Open the treatment review and file upload page. For related guidance, see the patient resources section.
