Various Imaging in Medicine

In modern healthcare, physicians view the inside of the body through medical imaging. This removes the risks that comes with invasive procedures and can help monitor many medical conditions.

X-ray Imaging:

X-rays are the most widely used type of imaging due to being very effective in detecting infections, bone fractures, and even certain tumors. It is also one of the oldest forms of imaging since it was invented in 1895. A beam of radiation is flashed at the body. The different tissues absorb the radiation at different rates which results in an image. A little amount of ionizing radiation is used to develop the images. The images show denser tissues in white and soft tissues in grey.

Computed Tomography (CT):

CT scans are a collection of x-rays taken from different angles. A special computer puts the images together to create a cross section of the body. Sometimes 3-D models are also made. They provide more detailed images for softer tissues like organs and blood vessels. A CT machine is a large cylindrical machine with both ends open, in which the patient is put through.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI):

MRI's use strong magnets and radio waves to get a clear picture of the patient's body. It does not use radiation like X-rays and CT scans. MRI's help visualize the brain, spinal cord, muscles, and joints. MRI machines are generally enclosed but only the patient's upper body goes through. There are open machines as well but they are not as common.

Ultrasounds:

Ultrasound imaging uses sound waves to produce images of internal structures. It is commonly used to guide certain procedures and or pregnancy. Ultrasounds are non-invasive and do not use radiation. Ultrasound images are in greyscale and show dense masses in white.

Nuclear Medicine:

Nuclear medicine includes injecting small amounts of radiative material into the body. Images are taken to detect the radioactive material. It shows the functions of the bodily organs. A common type of nuclear medicine is Positron Emission Tomography (PET). PET is generally used to diagnose cancer and heart disease.

Sources:

• https://blog.radiology.virginia.edu/different-imaging-tests-explained/#:~:text=Each%20modality%20is%20unique%20in,MRI%2C%20ultrasound%2C%20and%20PET.

• https://www.fda.gov/radiation-emitting-products/radiation-emitting-products-and-procedures/medical-imaging

• https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9192206/

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