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Computer Tomography (CT)
CT (computer tomography), sometimes called CAT scan, uses
special x-ray equipment to obtain image data from different
angles around the body, and then uses computer processing
of the information to show a cross-section of body tissues
and organs.
Body CT:
CT imaging is particularly useful because it can show several
types of tissue -- lung, bone, soft tissue, and blood vessels
-- with great clarity. Using specialized equipment and expertise
to create and interpret CT scans of the body, radiologists
can more easily diagnose problems such as cancers, cardiovascular
disease, infectious disease, trauma, and musculoskeletal
disorders. CT of the body is a patient-friendly exam that
involves little radiation exposure. Because it provides
detailed, cross-sectional views of all types of tissue,
CT is one of the best tools for studying the chest and abdomen.
It is often the preferred method for diagnosing many different
cancers, including lung, liver, and pancreatic cancer, since
the image allows a physician to confirm the presence of
a tumor and to measure its size, precise location, and the
extent of the tumor's involvement with other nearby tissue.
CT can clearly show even very small bones, as well as surrounding
tissues such as muscle and blood vessels. This makes it
invaluable in diagnosing and treating spinal problems and
injuries to the hands, feet, and other skeletal structures.
CT images can also be used to measure bone mineral density
for the detection of osteoporosis. In cases of trauma, CT
can quickly identify injuries to the liver, spleen, kidneys,
or other internal organs. Many dedicated shock-trauma centers
have a CT scanner in the trauma department. CT can also
play a significant role in the detection, diagnosis, and
treatment of vascular diseases that can lead to stroke,
gangrene or kidney failure.
Head CT:
This technique has proved very helpful to radiologists in
diagnosing tumors of the brain as well as disorders of the
eyes and the inner ear. It requires specialized equipment
and expertise and allows evaluation of some body structures
that may not be as visible with other imaging methods.MRI
is the most sensitive exam for brain tumors, strokes, and
certain chronic disorders of the nervous system such as
multiple sclerosis. In addition, it is a useful means of
documenting brain abnormalities in patients with dementia,
and it is commonly used for patients with disease of the
pituitary gland. MRI can detect tiny areas of tissue abnormality
in patients with disease of the eyes or the inner ear.
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) uses radio waves and a strong
magnetic field rather than x-rays to provide clear and detailed
pictures of internal organs and tissues.
Body MRI:
This process uses radio waves and a strong magnetic field
rather than x-rays to provide remarkably clear and detailed
pictures of internal organs and tissues. The technique has
proven very valuable for the diagnosis of a broad range
of conditions in all parts of the body, including cancer,
heart and vascular disease, stroke, and joint and musculoskeletal
disorders. MRI requires specialized equipment and expertise
and allows evaluation of some body structures that may not
be as visible with other imaging methods.
Head MRI: In
addition, it is a useful means of documenting brain abnormalities
in patients with dementia, and it is commonly used for patients
with disease of the pituitary gland. MRI can detect tiny
areas of tissue abnormality in patients with disease of
the eyes or the inner ear.
Functional MRI (fMRI):
A functional MRI can help them determine precisely which
part of the brain is handling critical functions such as
thought, speech, movement, and sensation. This information
can be critical to planning surgery, radiation therapy,
treatment for stroke, or other interventions to treat brain
disorders. The term functional MRI can also include other
MRI techniques that are sensitive to physiologic changes
(such as changes in water motion). fMRI studies are useful
in planning a course of radiation therapy to treat brain
tumors, since they can help physicians monitor the metabolism
of the tumor as well as normal brain function. fMRI can
also help assess the effects of stroke, trauma, or degenerative
disease (such as Alzheimer's) on brain function.
Myelograhpy
A myelogram is an x-ray test that uses dye directly injected
into your spinal canal to help show places where your spinal
cord may be getting pinched by the vertebrae in your back.
It is sometimes used to help diagnose back or leg pain problems,
especially if surgery is being planned. Myelograhpy is the
preferred technique for detecting abnormal blood vessels
surrounding the spinal cord. Although myelograhpy has been
largely superseded by magnetic resonance imaging, it is
often able to detect these when MRI has failed to do so.
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