Radiology
Radiology, also known as diagnostic imaging, is a series of tests that take pictures or images of parts of the body. The field encompasses two areas — diagnostic radiology and interventional radiology — that both use radiant energy to diagnose and treat diseases. While there are several different imaging exams, some of the most common include x-ray, MRI, ultrasound, CT scan and PET scan.
A radiologist will look at the outcome of a certain imaging test to find a relevant image that evaluates and supports a diagnosis. These individuals are usually medical doctors (MDs) with highly specialized training focused on the interpretation of medical imaging. Radiologic technologists also aid in this process, as they use and manage the machines in the course of producing an image. After a patient undergoes imaging tests, radiologists will give reports of their interpretations to the referring clinical doctors.
What Is Radiology Used for?
Radiology is used for a wide range of conditions, and is classified depending on the type of radiology and the exact imaging test used. The various imaging exams include:
- Radiographs: X-rays to look at bones, the chest or the abdomen.
- CT (Computed Tomography): A CT captures multiple x-ray angles of the patient using a doughnut-shaped machine, then creates computer-processed images.
- MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): An MRI uses magnetic fields and radio waves with computer processing to create images.
- Mammograms: Specially powered x-rays that look at breast tissues.
- Ultrasound: An ultrasound uses sound waves to create moving images that display on a monitor, commonly used for echocardiograms and examining the womb during pregnancy.
- Fluoroscopy: X-rays that make moving images of the body in real time. This imaging is crucial for many procedures, especially those involving the gastrointestinal tract.
- Nuclear medicine: These are short-acting radioactive substances that generate light from bodily processes. A camera collects the light, so a computer can process it and develop an image.
Diagnostic radiology uses these imaging results to identify a wide range of problems, from broken bones to heart conditions and blood clots. Interventional radiology also uses imaging such as CT scans, MRI and ultrasounds to guide medical procedures. Patients are typically awake during these procedures, whether it’s treating cancer, back pain, or liver and kidney problems. In some cases, interventional radiology eliminates the need for surgery and scopes.
Diagnostic Radiology
Diagnostic Radiology helps the doctors to diagnose the injury in detail with the help of images. The specialist then interprets these images and treats accordingly. Diagnostic imaging helps the radiologist to:
- Diagnose the cause of the symptom
- Monitor the body response of the treatment
- Early detection of cancer and heart disease
MRI scan (magnetic resonance imaging)
Magnetic Resonance Imaging is a scanning procedure that uses strong magnetic radiations that generates signals from the body. These signals are then detected by a radio antenna and processed by a computer in order to make a detailed image map of the body. It helps the doctor to accurately access the medical problem and provide with best treatment possible.
Abdominal ultrasound
An ultrasound scan is an imaging procedure that uses high frequency sound waves to capture live images from inside of the body. Unlike other imaging procedures it does not use radiation which is also the primary reason to use it while pregnant. It is used to monitor the developing fetus during the pregnancy.
Abdominal Ultrasound is highly recommended by doctors to see various organs in the abdomen such as gallbladder, intestines, kidney, liver, blood vessels etc. it helps the doctors to access the cause of various diseases.
Doppler Ultrasound
A Doppler ultrasound is also a noninvasive test which helps in estimation of blood flow by using high frequency sound waves. It is different from a normal ultrasound since a regular ultrasound can only produce images but it is incapable of showing the blood flow and blood vessels. This revolutionary technique helps to diagnose Blood clots, heart defects, a blocked artery, decreased blood circulation etc.
Advanced CT scan
Computed scan or CT scan is a diagnostic procedure that generates a sequence of detailed images of various body parts. In this process several X- rays are produced from different angles to produce a detailed Image map. The advanced CT scan processes these X- rays and prepares a three-dimensional image of the body. This helps the doctors to see soft bones and tissues of the body. Such technological advancements in medicine are very helpful in complicated surgeries.
Non-Invasive CT Angiography
Non-Invasive CT Angiography is a technique that shows detailed images of blood vessels. This helps the doctors to see the proper functioning of the heart and blood vessels of different parts of the body.
Interventional Radiology
Interventional Radiology is a specialization that uses imaging procedures to obtain specific images of inside of the body. These images are carefully studied to diagnose and interpret the cause of the injury or disease. The major advancements in interventional radiology help the doctors in early detection of cancer, tumor, blockage in arteries or veins, liver issues, fibroids, and other bodily problems.
