These days, advanced medical technology and state-of-the-art medical equipment are helping doctors to diagnose different types of existing and new health ailments correctly and quickly. At the same time, the introduction of such equipment also has managed to eliminate the need for recommending exploratory surgical measures in several cases. This not only helps patients to save a good amount of money, but also the pain and trouble that is involved in the process. Modern diagnostic medicine involves four important imaging techniques that are used extensively. However, the best technique to be used is the one that depends on patient’s medical history, injury location and its nature. Radiology is one such department that is growing in significant, helping the doctors to diagnose the health issues experienced by their patients. Having completed bsc radiology course allows candidates to enjoy a highly rewarding career in this field.
CT Scanning
This imaging technique was first developed by two British engineers, named Godfrey Hounsfield and Dr. Alan Cormack in 1947. In this procedure, two dimensional images are generated instead of passing X-rays through patient’s body. The CT scan offers 3D image of the internal structure. Moreover, tomographic images are taken in multiple directions to compile several 2D x-ray images. This again helps generate 3D image of the tissue or organ. Thus, the CT scan can be rightly termed as a powerful imaging test when compared to the standard x-ray radiographs. It also distinguishes the tissues of differing densities by just about 1%. Thus, this sophisticated x-ray imaging procedure helps diagnose internal soft tissue related injuries. However, it emits higher radiation when compared to the standard X-ray machines.
X-ray imaging to diagnose skeletal disorders
To diagnose bone injuries as well as to determine its severity, X-ray is considered to be the preferred imaging choice. This effective and quick procedure generates x-ray that is then passed through the patient’s body in short pulses. Images get captured on digital flat-panel detector. Skeletal system related problems are diagnosed with the resultant radiograph. X-ray is also used to diagnose kidney stones, bowel obstructions and lung problems. But it lacks the sensitivity essential to diagnose soft tissue injuries.
Ultrasound imaging
It is also referred to as ultrasonography. It generates high-frequency sound waves to create images in real-time of muscles, the internal organs, soft tissues and tendons. It determines the size, structure and position of soft tissues and the internal organs, while being an invaluable procedure to monitor baby’s health during pregnancy. This low-cost technique is administered in several settings as the equipment is portable. It also does not pose any health risk or use ionizing radiation.
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
Also called MRT (Magnetic Resonance Tomography), it uses magnetic fields and not X-rays to create 3D image of the patient’s body. With this technique, clear images are produced of the soft tissues with X-rays. It is a much-preferred technique to CT scanning as it can help detect tumours and scan the brain.
One major benefit is that harmful ionizing radiation is not used image creation, thereby reducing unwanted health risks. But patients having implants like metallic implants, prostheses, insulin pumps or pacemakers do run high risk and are not recommended such tests.
The candidates undergoing bsc in radiology are taught to manage the different types of advanced equipment and patient care.
