Understanding Medical Image Techniques

Medical image technology can mean the difference between a complex and uncertain diagnosis and a concrete assurance of a medical condition

. Today's imaging clinics are more technologically advanced than ever before, providing patients and doctors with crucial knowledge. It is vital that patients understand the wealth of medical image technology and options that are typically available at any good clinic so that they can be sure they choose the right technique for their needs.

X-Ray Imaging As Diagnostic Standard

Many patients visiting Inverness diagnostic imaging centers have heard of common techniques for medical image creation such as the x-ray. Many of them have been around for years, and although they have been improved during that time the basic technology remains the same. In an x-ray, diagnostic imaging professionals use an x-ray generator to take several shots of the body part in question. The x-rays pass through different materials at different rates, making it possible for the technician to take an image of bone without losing it amidst muscle and other tissues. Bones show up as a strong white, while the rest of the body's tissues appear only faintly. A doctor can use an x-ray image to determine a vast number of problems, ranging from common breaks and fractures to less common ailments.

Modern Computer Assisted Imaging

Ultrasounds are well known to most women who have had children. Diagnostic imaging uses ultrasounds to view body structures that cannot be viewed with x-ray technology alone. A developing fetus is not the only type of structure that can be viewed; tendons, muscles, ligaments, complex joint structures, and internal organs can all be imaged with ultrasound.

Finally, CT scans, better known to some patients as CAT scans, are another commonly used method at clinics. A CT scan uses x-ray technology as well, but combines it with the digital capabilities of a computer. The CT scanner takes multiple frames around a single point from many different angles, and then combines them to reveal the overall structure.

Clinics That Go Beyond the Basic

Almost any imaging clinic will offer the CT scan, the x-ray, and the ultrasound. Only great clinics can afford to offer some of the more cutting edge techniques available near Allen Ridge. Diagnostic imaging centers will sometimes offer mammography, and some Inverness diagnostic imaging clinics offer even further options, including cutting edge techniques like fluoroscopy, biopsies, echocardiograms, and exams using nuclear medicine.

Nuclear medicine is one of the most striking uses of modern image generation technology. In a nuclear medical exam, a slightly radioactive agent is introduced into a patient's system and then monitored to see where it travels. Because the doctor can track the radioactive signal from the compound, he or she can see exactly how whatever the compound was absorbed with is handled by the body. The radioactive isotopes are completely harmless, and will eventually become inert even if it isn't passed from the body shortly after it is introduced.

Diagnostic Imaging In the Future

Provided that fully-featured clinics are available, it is generally easy for patients to choose a location that will provide a good experience. Friendly staff and updated certifications should be checked for in advance, and reports should be available promptly. Patients should also be certain that their chosen facility is within the scope of their insurance and that it offers service to outpatients. With these few conditions met, the experience is sure to be pleasant and productive.

by: Chris Harmen

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