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Radiologic Disciplines
Radiography/Xray
Radiography or Xray uses a small dose of ionizing radiation to develop images of the body's bones and internal organs. X-rays are the oldest and remain the most frequently used form of diagnostic imaging. They are used to diagnose a fractured bone, visualize injury or infection as well as locating foreign bodies in soft tissue. Certain x-ray exams may require an injection of iodine-based contrast material and/or drinking barium to help improve the visibility of a particular organ, blood vessel, tissue or bone.
CT Scan
Computed Tomography (CT) is a radiology test used to create detailed images of the internal structures of the body. Cross-sectional images are generated during a CT scan. The data used to create the image can be reformatted in multiple planes as well as 3D images. CT scanning is considered one of the best methods for detecting different kinds of cancer because the images allow your doctor to visualize the presence of a tumor and determine its exact size and location. CT is quick, relatively painless and most of all, accurate.
Ultrasound
Ultrasound imaging technologists or Sonographers, use a transducer or probe which generates sound waves and produces an image of the body's internal structures. Ultrasound uses no radiation, has no known harmful effects and provides a relatively clear imaging of soft tissues that may not image well on x-ray. Ultrasound can be used to aid in the diagnosis of infection, swelling and unexplained pain. It is used to provide imaging guidance during needle biopsies and to visualize and evaluate issues with vascular blood flow. It is the preferred imaging method for monitoring a pregnant woman and her unborn child.
MRI
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) does not use radiation. MRI uses a powerful magnetic field to create radio frequencies which when exposed to the field, causes the protons in your body to “line up” in a specific way. This lining up of the molecules sends a signal back to the machine. A special computer is then used to produce highly detailed images of the body's internal structures. These images are extremely accurate and have the highest resolution available. MRI is used to evaluate the body for a variety of conditions, including tumors, multiple sclerosis (MS) and physical trauma such as a ligament tears.
Mammography
Mammography is a type of imaging specifically of the breast that uses low-dose x-rays to detect cancer early when it is most treatable. Mammography is an integral part of early detection of breast cancer because it can visualize changes in breast tissue almost two years before a patient or their physician could feel them. The American Medical Association (AMA) and the American College of Radiology (ACR) recommend women over the age of 40 have annual mammograms from an accredited facility.
Nuclear Medicine/PET
Positron Emission Tomography or more commonly known as a PET Scan, is a nuclear medicine imaging technique that is used to observe metabolic processes in the body with the aid of a CT scanner. This technique allows for multiplanar imaging of the body with 3D reconstruction.