26 November 2018
 Categories: Health & Medical , Blog

Although medical imaging has been employed for decades, there has been an assortment of technological advancements that have made it increasingly precise. Through medical imaging, there is now a vast range of diseases that can be diagnosed and treated. Not to mention the added benefit that medical imaging offers in the form of monitoring, which is key for managing some health conditions from cancer to broken bones. One thing you may not know about medical imaging is that the processes also employ the use of radiation. The different types of imaging will then measure the radiation in accordance with the amount that is absorbed and the sensitivity of the body parts the radiation is being applied to. This article lists a few of the most common kinds of medical imaging services available.

X-Rays

Without a doubt, X-rays are the oldest and most commonly administered medical imaging services in hospitals the world over. X-rays also happen to be one of the most affordable kinds of medical imaging that is available. Nevertheless, it should be noted that X-rays might not be the clearest option that you can choose because there is a chance that some details will be blurred as multiple images are overlaid.

MRI Scans

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) services are another popular option for patients requiring medical imaging since they also provide clear, cross-sectional images. An additional advantage of an MRI scan is that the equipment creates a magnetic field, which minimises the amount of radiation that the patient is exposed to. Take note, however, that if you have medical equipment such as a pacemaker installed then you will be unable to undergo an MRI. Magnetic resonance imaging is usually carried out on tendons, the spine, bones, brain tumours and joints.

CT Scans

Also referred to as computerised tomography scans, this medical imaging is employed with the intent of revealing your body's tissue at a high definition. Since the image created is taken as a cross-section rather than an overlay, the final image is incredibly precise with the highest degree of details. Computerised tomography scans are best employed when imaging the chest cavity and the lungs.

PET Scans

Once radioactive chemicals are injected into your body, the radiologist will employ a positron emission tomography, which is a detector that functions to determine the concentration of these chemicals in your bloodstream. Through a PET scan, the doctors are capable of establishing if any parts of a body are experiencing insufficient blood flow, especially when a patient has suffered a stroke.