Computed Tomography
Computed Tomography, referred to as CT Scanning, is a special radiological procedure that uses x-ray equipment and computers to create images in cross sections of the body. CT exams clearly show several different types of tissue (lung, bone, soft tissue, and blood vessels) and allow radiologists to diagnose cancers, cardiovascular disease, infectious disease, trauma, and musculoskeletal disorders.
CT exams can also help in treatment for tumors, guiding biopsies, finding and treating spinal problems, identifying injuries to small bones in the hands and feet, detecting osteoporosis, and diagnosing injuries to internal organs. CT exams are tailored to the individual so that pediatric patients receive less radiation than adults.
Contrast agents are often used during CT scans to enhance images and can be swallowed, injected intravenously, or administered by enema.
PET/CT Scan
PET (Positron Emission Tomography) and CT (Computed Tomography) scans are both standard imaging exams that physicians use to pinpoint disease states in the body. A PET scan demonstrates the biological function of the body, while the CT scan provides information about the body’s anatomy such as size, shape, and location. By combining the two scanning technologies, a PET/CT scan enables physicians to more accurately diagnose and identify diseases such as cancer.
A PET/CT scan will require an IV injection of FDG (Fluorodeoxyglucose), which is an analog that is tagged to the radionuclide F18. This radioactive “sugar” will allow images to be taken of metabolic functions in the body. These images produce “hot spots”, often indicating rapidly growing tumors. Cancerous cells generally consume more sugar/energy than other organs or tumors. A radiologist will analyze the images and create a report.
A PET/CT exam not only helps your physician diagnose a problem, it also helps predict the likely outcome of various therapeutic alternatives, pinpoint the best approach for treatment, and monitor your progress.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging - MRI
Magnetic Resonance Imaging, commonly referred to as MRI, is a scanning system that creates detailed images of the human anatomy using magnets, computers, and radio waves.
MRI offers high quality detailed images of internal organs and internal structures of the body. For example, an MRI of the abdominal organs can provide detail about the soft tissues that other imaging studies cannot. In some cases a contrast agent will be administered to enhance images for the purpose of interpretation.
MRI is helpful in determining abnormalities of the brain and spinal cord, injuries or abnormalities of joints, tumors, cysts, or other abnormalities of various parts of the body, causes of pelvic pain in women, and many other conditions. Magnetic Resonance Imaging can not be used on patients with cardiac pacemakers, certain types of aneurysm clips, neurostimulators, inner ear implants, and some types of implanted medical pumps.
Ultrasound
Ultrasound imaging is fast, painless, non-invasive, and easy. It is an excellent way to evaluate a fetus, to examine internal organs, to guide needle biopsies, and to diagnose vascular problems. Ultrasound, also called sonography, uses high-frequency sound waves to show real-time visual images. Echoes are produced as sound waves travel through the body, which identify the distance and size of an object.
Ultrasound scanners have a video display screen, a computer, and a transducer. The transducer sends sound waves through the body, the computer receives these waves, and the screen displays them. Images from the exam will appear on screen and can be reviewed as they are taken.
Diagnostic Fluoroscopy
Several radiologic procedures fall into this category including upper GI studies, barium enemas, cystograms, and arthrograms. These procedures require the administration of a contrast agent by injection, mouth, or enema. This contrast will enhance x-ray images, making diagnosis easier and more accurate.
During these procedures, images are taken before and after the contrast is administered. The radiologist will watch the progress of the contrast agent, assessing and diagnosing any abnormalities. There is usually a preparation for these exams which should be explained by your physician.
Nuclear Medicine
Nuclear medicine is a special method of examination that uses small amounts of radioactive materials called radiopharmaceuticals, to create images of bone, tissue, and organs. It is unique because it reveals both form and function of a targeted area, while other methods only reveal anatomical images.
The radioactive materials are administered by mouth, injection, or inhalation, and are attracted to specific internal structures. Data is gathered from pictures that measure levels of radiation emitted from the targeted structure. This information is then conveyed onto film or computer for interpretation. Common uses of nuclear medicine include tests of the thyroid, brain, bones, lungs, heart, liver, and gallbladder.