Radiology is the use of ionizing or other radiation to acquire diagnostic images. Simply put, radiation is energy that travels. Radiology departments are diagnostic medical imaging departments found in hospitals. The imaging modalities used in radiology departments are X-ray, fluoroscopy, computed tomography (CT), sonography (ultrasound) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Radiation
Radiology uses several forms of imaging to detect abnormalities within the body. X-ray, fluoroscopy and computed tomography use ionizing radiation. Ionizing radiation is associated with the possible development of cancerous cells. Nuclear medicine also uses ionizing radiation. Radiation is detected by tracers that are injected into the patient. MRI uses radiation in the form of magnetic and radio waves. Ultrasound uses radiation in the form of sound waves. Both MRI and ultrasound radiation are generally considered safe and are non-ionizing.
Radiologists
Radiologists are physicians who are specially trained in radiology. They are knowledgeable in physics concerning ionizing, sound and magnetic radiation. Radiologists oversee safety protocol when using diagnostic imaging modalities. They are responsible for adhering to the ALARA guidelines of exposure: As Low As Reasonably Possible. They also read the exams that are provided by the technologists and other trained staff.
Technologists and Other Staff
Diagnostic imaging exams are performed by specially trained health care professionals. They are educated in the physics and safety protocols of their respective modalities. Radiographers are trained in X-ray and fluoroscopy. They may also cross-train to become CT technologists. MRI technologists are responsible for acquiring different types of MRI images. Sonographers use ultrasound for the diagnosis of various conditions. Nuclear medicine technologists most often perform exams that test body function, unlike the other modalities that image anatomical abnormalities. Technologists determine the amount of radiation to use, and abide by the principle of ALARA.
Procedures
Radiologists perform many surgical procedures using diagnostic imaging equipment. Procedures include spinal injections, PICC lines, biopsies, thoracenteses and paracenteses. The radiology staff assist the radiologist by readying the appropriate equipment for the procedures. They ensure that the appropriate paperwork is completed and that biopsy samples are sent to the appropriate laboratories.
Diagnostics
Although some radiologic procedures are administered for therapeutic reasons, most examinations are done for diagnostic reasons. Patients are referred to the radiology department with a suspected diagnosis. The appropriate examinations are done and the radiologist issues a report to the ordering physician. The ordering physician uses the information acquired from the radiologist, lab work and medical history to produce a final diagnosis and treatment.
Tags: X-ray fluoroscopy, computed tomography, diagnostic imaging, examinations done, exams that
