Radiographic techniques are different procedures that radiography technicians use to help diagnose and treat medical conditions. Using specific equipment, procedures and techniques, radiographic technicians can make images of the bones, tissues and organs of the body. Additionally, radiographic techniques can provide information about diseases and other conditions present in the body.
X-rays
X-rays are radiographic techniques that use controlled radiation rays to record an image of the inside of the body on film or on a digital image recording plate. Types of body parts each appear differently because density affects how images appear on an x-ray. Bone is white because it absorbs most of the radiation. Soft tissue such as muscle, fat or organs appear gray because they allow more of the x-rays. After the x-ray is finished, it is examined by a doctor trained in radiography to help determine the diagnosis.
To take x-rays, technicians must position the body or the x-ray machine to provide the best possible views of bones and joints.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
The magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) radiographic technique can be used to identify tissue or joints tears or bone bruising. MRI scans use magnetic fields instead of x-rays to provide cross-sectional views of the body. A dye is injected or a drink ingested so that certain parts of the body are viewable. Because MRIs provide more contrast than other scans (such as CT scans), they are used when several different or detailed views of one particular part of the body are needed.
Computed Tomography (CT Scan)
A CT scan (CT) is a radiographic technique known as computerized tomography. It is used when views of complicated injuries or disease are necessary. CTs produce two-dimensional images that can often be turned into three-dimensional images when a total view is needed. CTs provide cross-sectional views of the body by using special x-ray equipment (and in some cases a contrast material) to produce multiple images or pictures of the inside of the body.
Ultrasound Images
Ultrasound imaging is another type of imaging that involves the use of sound waves to create diagnostic images and provide views of many different body conditions, including pregnancy. Ultrasound uses high frequency sound waves that hit certain parts of the internal body so that echoes are sent back to a computer screen to form an image. The radiography technician must use a probe over parts or inside the body to form images.
Positron Emission Tomography (PET scan)
PET scans are a type of nuclear medicine imaging. A PET scan measures important body functions such as blood flow, oxygen use and metabolism to provide diagnostic information and help physicians determine how well organs or tissues are functioning. A radiotracer is injected into the patient's vein or it is swallowed or inhaled as a gas. It accumulates in the area of the body being examined and gives off gamma rays detected by a special camera and PET scanner. These work with a computer to measure the radiotracers in order to get details on the function and structure of tissues and organs such as the heart and brain. Additionally, PET scans can determine differences in malignant and benign tissues, which is helpful when diagnosing or treating cancer.
Tags: inside body, certain parts, cross-sectional views, cross-sectional views body, provide cross-sectional, provide cross-sectional views
