Radiographer Definition
A radiographer, also known as a radiologist or radiological technician, creates images using such technologies as x-ray, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Radiographers prepare a patient for the procedure, maintain equipment and work closely with doctors to make a diagnosis. Employed in hospitals, research labs, diagnostic imaging centers, clinics, doctor's offices and veterinary sites, radiographers may also teach or sell equipment.
History
Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen of Wuerzburg University in Germany accidentally discovered x-rays in 1895 while working with a cathode ray tube. Within a few months, medical professionals applied the technology to diagnosing illness and injury. The application exploded when Marie Curie advocated the use of mobile radiography units on battlefields during WWI--designing vehicles to transport the equipment and fundraising to provide more machines to the soldiers.
CT
Today, radiographers perform a host of duties, moving beyond x-ray technology. Computed tomography, also known as computed axial tomography (CAT), generates three-dimensional images from a series of x-rays taken from various angles of a subject. As the CT scan spirals around a body, the technologist views images slice by slice.
Fluoroscopy
A fluoroscopist uses x-ray images as well, but also employs dyes or contrast mediums such as barium to enhance the pictures produced. This radiologist prepares an ingestible substance for the patient or directly injects the dye to the injured area. Fluoroscopists generally concentrate on bodily systems such as cardiac, digestive or urinary processes.
MRI
Unlike x-ray, fluoroscopy or CT technology, nuclear magnetic resonance imaging (NMRI) or MRI professionals do not use ionizing radiation to create an image. Magnetic resonance manipulates hydrogen molecules in the body with magnets. A radiographer repeatedly alters magnetic fields in the body. The tissues respond differently as the magnetic fields change, allowing a tech to distinguish healthy or unhealthy responses.
Ultrasound
In ultrasound or ultrasonography, high-frequency sound carries waves into fluids until they reach tissue or bone barriers. The machine calculates the time it takes for the sound to travel, which allows the ultrasound technician to generate an image.
Education and Training
The more techniques a radiographer employs, the more marketable the technologist. Because of radiation exposure and the effect of magnets on metal embedded or implanted in a body, most states in the United States require licensing in addition to a secondary education. Students with a health or medical degree may obtain a one-year certificate in radiography. Others move directly from high school to a two-year or four-year degree in radiology. Those wishing to teach need a four-year degree; and those wanting to head a radiography department command a degree in business or health administration in addition to a bachelor's degree.
Salary
As of 2009, radiologists generally make from $30,000 to $80,000 per year dependent on training, duties and market demands. The highest paid radiographers tend to work in research laboratories, while the lowest paid work in doctor's offices.
Tags: also known, doctor offices, four-year degree, magnetic fields, magnetic resonance, magnetic resonance imaging
