For which clinical indication are limited bone imaging ("spot views") most appropriate?

Limited bone imaging, or "spot views," are particularly useful for evaluating conditions that involve localized areas of interest rather than requiring a comprehensive assessment of the entire skeleton. This approach is especially beneficial for assessing temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain, as it allows for focused imaging of the joint region.

In cases of TMJ pain, the anatomy and biomechanics of the joint are complex, and specific imaging of the area can reveal conditions such as joint misalignment, degenerative changes, or the presence of bony abnormalities. Spot views provide clinicians with a clearer and more detailed look at these localized issues without the unnecessary exposure or information that broader imaging might entail.

In contrast, other conditions like Paget's disease, metastatic disease, or historical evaluations for child abuse typically require more comprehensive imaging. Paget's disease often affects multiple areas of the skeletal system, necessitating a whole-body scan to assess the extent of involvement. Similarly, ruling out skeletal metastases usually demands a full skeletal survey to detect disseminated disease accurately. Evaluating for occult fractures in cases of suspected child abuse would also require a broader approach to properly assess potential injuries throughout the skeleton.