Digital Radiology Techniques used in imaging

Why is technology so important? Prenatal Diagnosis and Management of Conjoined Fetuses

Traditional X-ray Uses electromagnetic waves to produce the image. Must have film processor. Films are hung on a view box to review by radiologist Most traditional x-rays have been replaced with digital, but can be found in orthopedics and dentistry.

Digital Imaging Uses computers to generate pictures of the internal body Computers use mathematical information to make pictures  Advantages No developing process or chemicals Viewed on computer Instant imaging Can be transmitted via internet Less radiation Can be enhanced or manipulated

Digital Mammography Used for the diagnosis of breast cancer Useful for patients less than 50 years old Ultrasound can also be used to detect tumors and cysts

Ultrasound Uses high frequency sound waves to produce an image Non invasive and causes no pain to patient

Computerized Tomography (CT scan) Sends x-ray through the body to take a thin slice picture of the body part (cross-sectional) Enhanced CT scans use injectable dye to produce image

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Produces images of soft body tissues The image is produced by computer and a magnetic field Uses no radiation

Positron Emission Tomography Uses camera and radioactive drug to produce an image Uses radioscope technology The technique is most often used to locate cancers Has also been used to study Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease

Interventional Radiology Invasive procedure using catheters and needles to perform such interventions as angioplasty, biopsies and stent placement using radiographic guidance