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Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the Heart (MRI Scan of the Heart, Cardiac MRI) Procedure Overview What is magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the heart? Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a diagnostic procedure that uses a combination of a large magnet, radiofrequencies, and a computer to produce detailed images of organs and structures within the body. How does MRI work? The MRI machine is a large, cylindrical (tube-shaped) machine that creates a strong magnetic field around the patient. This magn...

Mammogram Procedure (Mammography, Breast X-ray) Procedure Overview What is a mammogram? A mammogram is an x-ray examination of the breast. It is used to detect and diagnose breast disease in women who either have breast problems such as a lump, pain, or nipple discharge, as well as for women who have no breast complaints. The procedure allows detection of breast cancers, benign tumors, and cysts before they can be detected by palpation (touch). Mammography cannot prove that an abnormal area is cancer, b...

Pelvic Ultrasound (Ultrasound-Pelvis, Pelvic Ultrasonography, Pelvic Sonography, Pelvic Scan, Lower Abdomen Ultrasound, Gynecologic Ultrasound, Transabdominal Ultrasound, Transvaginal Ultrasound, Endovaginal Ultrasound) Procedure Overview What is a pelvic ultrasound? A pelvic ultrasound is a noninvasive (the skin is not pierced) procedure used to assess organs and structures within the female pelvis. A pelvic ultrasound allows quick visualization of the female pelvic organs and structures including the ...

Ultrafast Computed Tomography (Ultrafast CT Scan) (Ultrafast CT, Electron-Beam Computed Tomography, EBCT, Cine CT Scan) Procedure Overview What is an ultrafast computed tomography scan (CT scan)? Computed tomography (CT or CAT scan) is a diagnostic imaging procedure that uses a combination of x-rays and computer technology to produce cross-sectional images (often called slices), both horizontally and vertically, of the body. A CT scan shows detailed images of any part of the body, including the bones, m...

Abdominal Angiogram (Angiogram-Abdominal, Arteriogram-Abdominal, Celiac and Mesenteric Arteriography, Abdominal Arteriography, Abdominal Angiography) Procedure Overview What is an abdominal angiogram? An angiogram, also called an arteriogram, is an x-ray image of the blood vessels. It is performed to evaluate various vascular conditions, such as an aneurysm (ballooning of a blood vessel), stenosis (narrowing of a blood vessel), or blockages. An abdominal angiogram is an angiogram of the blood vessels of...

Antegrade Pyelogram (Antegrade Nephrostogram) Procedure Overview What is an antegrade pyelogram? An antegrade pyelogram is a type of x-ray used to diagnose an obstruction of the upper urinary tract. During the procedure, a contrast dye is injected into a portion of the ureter (narrow tube that carries urine from the kidney to the bladder) closest to the kidneys called the renal pelvis. The flow of the contrast dye can then be observed with x-ray images as it moves from the kidneys into the ureters and u...

Barium Enema (BE, Lower Gastrointestinal Series, Lower GI Series, Colon X-ray) Procedure Overview What is a barium enema? A barium enema is a radiographic (x-ray) examination of the lower gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The large intestine, including the rectum, is made visible on x-ray film by filling the colon with a liquid suspension called barium sulfate (barium). Barium highlights certain areas in the body to create a clearer picture. X-rays use invisible electromagnetic energy beams to produce images...

Barium Swallow (Esophagography, Esophagogram) Procedure Overview What is a barium swallow? A barium swallow is a radiographic (x-ray) examination of the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract, specifically the pharynx (back of mouth and throat) and the esophagus (hollow tube of muscle extending from below the tongue to the stomach). The pharynx and esophagus are made visible on x-ray film by a liquid suspension called barium sulfate (barium). Barium highlights certain areas in the body to create a clearer pi...

Chest Fluoroscopy Procedure Overview What is chest fluoroscopy? Chest fluoroscopy is a type of x-ray procedure used to assess the motion and function of the lungs and other structures of the respiratory tract. Fluoroscopy is a study of moving body structures - similar to an x-ray "movie." A continuous x-ray beam is passed through the body part being examined. The beam is transmitted to a TV-like monitor so that the body part and its motion can be seen in detail. Fluoroscopy, as an imaging tool, enables ...

Chest Ultrasound (Chest Ultrasonography, Chest Wall Ultrasonography, Chest Sonography) Procedure Overview What is a chest ultrasound? A chest ultrasound is a noninvasive (the skin is not pierced) procedure used to assess the organs and structures within the chest, such as the lungs, mediastinum (area in the chest containing the heart, aorta, trachea, esophagus, thymus, and lymph nodes), and pleural space (space between the lungs and the interior wall of the chest). Ultrasound technology allows quick vis...

Chest X-ray (Chest Radiography, CXR) Procedure Overview What is a chest x-ray? A chest x-ray is a type of diagnostic radiology procedure used to examine the chest and the organs and structures located in the chest. Chest x-rays may be used to assess the lungs, as well as the heart (either directly or indirectly) by looking at the heart itself. Certain conditions of the heart may cause changes in the lungs and/or the vessels of the lungs. Changes in the normal structure of the heart, lungs, and/or lung v...

Cholecystography (Gallbladder Series, GB Series, Oral Cholecystography, Oral Cholecystogram, X-rays of the Gallbladder) Procedure Overview What is cholecystography? Cholecystography is an x-ray procedure used to examine the gallbladder when gallstones are suspected. A contrast dye is swallowed prior to the procedure. The contrast dye allows for better visualization of gallstones and other abnormalities of the gallbladder that cannot be seen on a standard x-ray of the abdomen. X-rays use invisible electr...

Computed Tomography (CT or CAT) Scan of the Abdomen (Abdominal CT Scan) Procedure Overview Computed tomography (CT or CAT scan) is a noninvasive diagnostic imaging procedure that uses a combination of x-rays and computer technology to produce cross-sectional images (often called slices), both horizontally and vertically, of the body. A CT scan shows detailed images of any part of the body, including the bones, muscles, fat, organs, and blood vessels. CT scans are more detailed than standard x-rays. In s...

Computed Tomography (CT or CAT) Scan of the Chest (Chest CT Scan, Thoracic CT Scan, CT of the Thorax) Procedure Overview Computed tomography (CT or CAT scan) is a noninvasive diagnostic imaging procedure that uses a combination of x-rays and computer technology to produce cross-sectional images (often called slices), both horizontally and vertically, of the body. A CT scan shows detailed images of any part of the body, including the bones, muscles, fat, and organs. CT scans are more detailed than standa...

Computed Tomography (CT or CAT) Scan of the Kidney (Renal CT Scan) Procedure Overview What is a CT or CAT scan of the kidney? Computed tomography (CT or CAT scan) is a noninvasive diagnostic imaging procedure that uses a combination of x-rays and computer technology to produce cross-sectional images (often called slices), both horizontally and vertically, of the body. A CT scan shows detailed images of any part of the body, including the bones, muscles, fat, and organs. CT scans are more detailed than s...

Computed Tomography (CT or CAT) Scan of the Liver and Biliary Tract (CT Scan of the Liver, Biliary Tract, Pancreas, Spleen, and Gallbladder) Procedure Overview What is a CT or CAT scan of the liver and biliary tract? Computed tomography (CT or CAT scan) is a noninvasive diagnostic imaging procedure that uses a combination of x-rays and computer technology to produce cross-sectional images (often called slices), both horizontally and vertically, of the body. A CT scan shows detailed images of any part of...

Computed Tomography (CT or CAT) Scan of the Pancreas (Pancreas CT Scan) Procedure Overview What is a CT or CAT scan of the pancreas? Computed tomography (CT or CAT scan) is a noninvasive diagnostic imaging procedure that uses a combination of x-rays and computer technology to produce cross-sectional images (often called slices), both horizontally and vertically, of the body. A CT scan shows detailed images of any part of the body, including the bones, muscles, fat, and organs. CT scans are more detailed...

Cystography (Cystourethrography, Voiding Cystography, Voiding Cystourethrography, VCUG) Procedure Overview What is cystography? Cystography is a diagnostic procedure that uses x-rays to examine the urinary bladder. Still x-ray pictures or fluoroscopy (a study of moving body structures - similar to an x-ray "movie") may be used. During cystography, contrast dye is injected into the bladder. Contrast refers to a substance taken into the body that causes the particular organ or tissue under study to be see...

Cystometry (Cystometrogram, CMG) Procedure Overview What is cystometry? Cystometry is a diagnostic procedure used to identify problems with the filling and emptying of the urinary bladder. This test measures the amount of volume/urine in the bladder compared with the bladder pressure and the person's perception of bladder fullness. Cystometry provides information about the muscle function, mechanics, and nerve response of the bladder and urinary tract. A normally functioning bladder sends messages to th...

Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP, ERCP of the Biliary and Pancreatic Ducts) Procedure Overview What is endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography? Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a diagnostic procedure that allows the physician to diagnose and treat problems in the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, and pancreas. The procedure combines x-ray and the use of an endoscope - a long, flexible, lighted tube. The scope is guided through the patient's mouth and thro...

Pulmonary Angiogram (Angiogram-Pulmonary, Pulmonary Angiography, Pulmonary Arteriogram, Pulmonary Arteriography, Angiogram of the Lungs) Procedure Overview What is a pulmonary angiogram? An angiogram, also called an arteriogram, is an x-ray image of the blood vessels. It is performed to evaluate various vascular conditions, such as an aneurysm (ballooning of a blood vessel), stenosis (narrowing of a blood vessel), or blockages. A pulmonary angiogram is an angiogram of the blood vessels of the lungs. A p...

Retrograde Cystography (Cystography - Retrograde) Procedure Overview What is retrograde cystography? Retrograde cystography is a diagnostic procedure that uses x-rays to examine the urinary bladder. X-rays are made of the bladder after it has been filled with a contrast dye. Contrast refers to a substance taken into the body that causes the particular organ or tissue under study to be seen more clearly. This examination allows the physician to assess the bladder's structure and integrity. During retrogr...

Sinus X-ray (Sinus Films) Procedure Overview What is a sinus x-ray? A sinus x-ray is a type of x-ray used to obtain images of the sinuses. The sinuses are air-filled cavities lined with mucous membranes located within the bones of the skull. During a sinus x-ray, x-rays pass through the sinuses and form an image on a special type of film. The sinuses are usually filled with air, which appears black on x-ray film. An opaque (whitened) area on an otherwise normal film may indicate the presence of sinusiti...

Upper Gastrointestinal Series (UGI, Upper GI Series, GI Series, Upper Gastrointestinal Tract X-ray) Procedure Overview What is an upper gastrointestinal series? An upper gastrointestinal series (UGI) is a radiographic (x-ray) examination of the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The esophagus, stomach, and duodenum (first part of the small intestine) are made visible on x-ray film by a liquid suspension. This liquid suspension may be barium or a water-soluble contrast such as Gastrografin TM . If only t...

Abdominal Ultrasound (Abdominal Ultrasonography, Abdominal Sonography, Abdominal Echography) Procedure Overview An abdominal ultrasound is a noninvasive (the skin is not pierced) procedure used to assess the organs and structures within the abdomen, such as the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, bile ducts, spleen, and abdominal aorta. Ultrasound technology allows quick visualization of the abdominal organs and structures from outside the body. Ultrasound may also be used to assess blood flow to abdominal or...

Abdominal X-rays (Flat Plate of the Abdomen, Abdominal Radiography, KUB [Kidneys, Ureters, Bladder] X-ray) Procedure Overview X-rays use invisible electromagnetic energy beams to produce images of internal tissues, bones, and organs on film. Standard x-rays are performed for many reasons, including diagnosing tumors or bone injuries. X-rays are made by using external radiation to produce images of the body, its organs, and other internal structures for diagnostic purposes. X-rays pass through body tissu...

Arthrography (Joint X-ray, Arthrogram) Procedure Overview What is arthrography? Arthrography is a type of x-ray used to examine a joint, such as the knee or hip, when standard x-rays are not adequate. A series of x-rays is taken with the joint in various positions after contrast dye is placed in the joint. While arthrography is most commonly used to examine the knee and shoulder joints, it may also be used to examine other joints, such as the wrist, ankle, hip, or elbow. Anatomy of the shoulder: Click I...

Bone Densitometry (Bone Mineral Density [BMD] Test, Bone Density Test, Bone Mineral Content, Bone Absorptiometry) Procedure Overview What is Bone Densitometry? Bone densitometry is used to measure the bone mineral content and density. This measurement can indicate decreased bone mass, a condition in which bones are more brittle and more prone to break or fracture easily. Bone densitometry is used primarily to diagnose osteoporosis and to determine fracture risk. The testing procedure measures the bone d...

Cerebral Arteriogram (Cerebral Angiography, Cerebral Angiogram) Procedure Overview What is a cerebral arteriogram? An arteriogram, also called an angiogram, is an x-ray image of the blood vessels. It is performed to evaluate various vascular conditions, such as an aneurysm (ballooning of a blood vessel), stenosis (narrowing of a blood vessel), or blockages. A cerebral arteriogram is an arteriogram of the blood vessels of the brain. How is an arteriogram performed? An arteriogram involves inserting an ar...

Computed Tomography (CT or CAT) Scan of the Bones (CT Scan of the Skeleton) Procedure Overview Computed tomography (CT or CAT scan) is a noninvasive diagnostic imaging procedure that uses a combination of x-rays and computer technology to produce cross-sectional images (often called slices), both horizontally and vertically, of the body. A CT scan shows detailed images of any part of the body, including the bones, muscles, fat, and organs. CT scans are more detailed than standard x-rays. In standard x-r...

Computed Tomography (CT or CAT) Scan of the Brain (Head CT Scan, Intracranial CT Scan) Procedure Overview What is a CT or CAT scan of the brain? Computed tomography (CT or CAT scan) is a noninvasive diagnostic imaging procedure that uses a combination of x-rays and computer technology to produce cross-sectional images (often called slices), both horizontally and vertically, of the body. A CT scan shows detailed images of any part of the body, including the bones, muscles, fat, and organs. CT scans are m...

Computed Tomography (CT or CAT) Scan of the Spine (Spinal CT Scan, CT of the Spine or Back) Procedure Overview What is a CT or CAT scan of the spine? Computed tomography (CT or CAT scan) is a noninvasive diagnostic imaging procedure that uses a combination of x-rays and computer technology to produce cross-sectional images (often called slices), both horizontally and vertically, of the body. A CT scan shows detailed images of any part of the body, including the bones, muscles, fat, and organs. CT scans ...

Fluoroscopy Procedure Procedure Overview Fluoroscopy is a study of moving body structures - similar to an x-ray "movie." A continuous x-ray beam is passed through the body part being examined. The beam is transmitted to a TV-like monitor so that the body part and its motion can be seen in detail. Fluoroscopy, as an imaging tool, enables physicians to look at many body systems, including the skeletal, digestive, urinary, respiratory, and reproductive systems. Fluoroscopy may be performed to evaluate spec...

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the Bones, Joints, and Soft Tissues (MRI Scan of the Bones, Joints, and Soft Tissue) Procedure Overview What is magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)? Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a diagnostic procedure that uses a combination of a large magnet, radiofrequencies, and a computer to produce detailed images of organs and structures within the body. How does an MRI scan work? The MRI machine is a large, cylindrical (tube-shaped) machine that creates a strong magnetic fi...

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the Spine and Brain (MRI Scan of the Spine, MRI Scan of the Brain) Procedure Overview What is magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)? Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a diagnostic procedure that uses a combination of a large magnet, radiofrequencies, and a computer to produce detailed images of organs and structures within the body. How does an MRI scan work? The MRI machine is a large, cylindrical (tube-shaped) machine that creates a strong magnetic field around the pat...

Myelogram (Myelography) Procedure Overview What is a myelogram? A myelogram, also known as myelography, is a diagnostic imaging procedure performed by a radiologist. It combines the use of a contrast substance with x-rays or computed tomography (CT) to evaluate abnormalities of the spinal canal, including the spinal cord, nerve roots, and other tissues. The contrast "dye" is injected into the spinal column before the procedure. This substance, or dye, causes the tissue under study to be visible. After t...

X-rays of the Extremities (X-ray of the Arm, Leg, Hand, Wrist, Foot, Ankle, Shoulder, Knee, or Hip) Procedure Overview What are x-rays of the extremities? X-rays use invisible electromagnetic energy beams to produce images of internal tissues, bones, and organs on film. Standard x-rays are performed for many reasons, including diagnosing tumors or bone injuries. X-rays are made by using external radiation to produce images of the body, its organs, and other internal structures for diagnostic purposes. X...

X-rays of the Skull (Skull X-ray Studies) Procedure Overview What are x-rays of the skull? X-rays use invisible electromagnetic energy beams to produce images of internal tissues, bones, and organs on film. Standard x-rays are performed for many reasons, including diagnosing tumors or bone injuries. X-rays are made by using external radiation to produce images of the body, its organs, and other internal structures for diagnostic purposes. X-rays pass through body tissues onto specially treated plates (s...

X-rays of the Spine, Neck, or Back (Cervical, Thoracic, Lumbar, Sacral, or Coccygeal X-ray Studies) Procedure Overview What are x-rays of the spine, neck, or back? X-rays use invisible electromagnetic energy beams to produce images of internal tissues, bones, and organs on film. Standard x-rays are performed for many reasons, including diagnosing tumors or bone injuries. X-rays are made by using external radiation to produce images of the body, its organs, and other internal structures for diagnostic pu...

Radiosurgery What is radiosurgery? Radiosurgery, also called stereotactic radiosurgery, is a very precise form of therapeutic radiology. Even though it is called surgery, radiosurgery does not involve actual surgery. Rather, very focused beams of radiation (gamma rays, x-rays, or protons) are used to treat cancerous tissues without a surgical incision or opening. Radiosurgery is called "surgery" because it is a one-session radiation therapy treatment that creates a similar result as an actual surgical p...

Advances in Therapeutic Radiology Like all medical specialties, the field of therapeutic radiology continues to make advances in knowledge and technology. Many newer radiation modalities are being used and studied to find more effective treatments for cancer and other conditions which may be treated with radiation. What are some types of advanced therapies? Some newer therapeutic radiation therapies are described below: radiation and chemotherapy in combination It has been discovered that radiation may,...

Arteriogram What is an arteriogram? An arteriogram is an x-ray of the blood vessels called arteries. It is performed to evaluate various vascular conditions, such as an aneurysm (a bulging, weakened area in the wall of a blood vessel), stenosis (narrowing of a blood vessel), or blockages. Other names for this procedure are angiogram and arteriography. Fluoroscopy is often used during an arteriogram. Fluoroscopy is the study of moving body structures - similar to an x-ray "movie." A continuous x-ray beam...

Barium X-Rays (Upper and Lower GI) What are barium x-rays? A barium x-ray is a radiographic (x-ray) examination of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Barium x-rays (also called upper and lower GI series) are used to diagnose abnormalities of the GI tract, such as tumors, ulcers and other inflammatory conditions, polyps, hernias, and strictures. Click Image to Enlarge The use of barium with standard x-rays contributes to the visibility of various characteristics of the GI tract. Barium is a dry, white, cha...

Brachytherapy What is brachytherapy? Brachytherapy is radiation treatment that is given inside the patient, as close to the cancer as possible. The radiation is delivered inside the body with radioactive isotopes (chemical elements), inside delivery devices such as wires, seeds, or rods. These devices are called implants. Brachytherapy allows for a higher total dose of radiation over a shorter period of time than does external beam therapy. The radiation dose is concentrated on the cancer cells and less...

Computed Tomography (CT or CAT) Scan What is a CT or CAT scan? A CT or CAT scan is a diagnostic imaging procedure that uses a combination of x-rays and computer technology to produce cross-sectional images (often called slices), both horizontally and vertically, of the body. A CT scan shows detailed images of any part of the body, including the bones, muscles, fat, organs, and blood vessels. CT scans are more detailed than standard x-rays. In standard x-rays, a beam of energy is aimed at the body part b...

Diagnostic Radiology Diagnostic radiology is the process of creating images of the body, its organs, and other internal structures with external radiation. Diagnostic radiology techniques include the use of x-ray tubes that emit radiation, radionuclides, ultrasonographic devices, and radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation. Diagnostic radiology techniques are generally non-invasive, meaning the body is not entered with any equipment or cut open for imaging. However, certain procedures do combine diagno...

Fluoroscopy What is fluoroscopy? Fluoroscopy is a study of moving body structures - similar to an x-ray "movie." A continuous x-ray beam is passed through the body part being examined, and is transmitted to a TV-like monitor so that the body part and its motion can be seen in detail. Fluoroscopy, as an imaging tool, enables physicians to look at many body systems, including the skeletal, digestive, urinary, respiratory, and reproductive systems. Fluoroscopy may be performed to evaluate specific areas of...

Glossary - Radiology | A | | B | | C | | D | | E | | F | | G | | H | | I | | J | | K | | L | | M | | N | | O | | P | | Q | | R | | S | | T | | U | | V | | W | | X | | Y | | Z | A [return to top] angioplasty - the use of a small balloon on the tip of a catheter inserted into a blood vessel to open up an area of blockage inside the vessel. arteriogram (Also called an angiogram.) - an x-ray of the arteries and veins to detect blockage or narrowing of the vessels. B [return to top] barium - a metallic chemi...

Topic Index The Radiologist The Radiology Team Overview of Radiological Imaging Diagnostic Radiology Therapeutic Radiology (Radiation Oncology) Interventional Radiology Glossary Radiology is the branch of medicine that uses radioactive substances, electromagnetic radiation, and sound waves to create images of the body, its organs, and structures for the purpose of diagnosis and treatment. Images can also show how effectively the body and its internal organs and structures are functioning. Radiology has ...

Interventional Radiology What is interventional radiology? Interventional radiologists are involved in the treatment of the patient, as well as the diagnosis of disease. They treat an ever-widening range of conditions inside the body from outside the body by inserting various small instruments or tools, such as catheters or wires, with the use of various x-ray and imaging techniques (i.e., CT scanners, MRI scanners, ultrasound scanners). Interventional radiology offers an alternative to the surgical tre...

Intravenous Pyelogram (IVP) What is an intravenous pyelogram (IVP)? An intravenous pyelogram, also called intravenous urography, is a diagnostic x-ray of the kidneys, ureters, and bladder. When a contrast dye is injected intravenously (IV), the urinary tract will show up very clearly, which is not seen on regular x-rays. An intravenous pyelogram may be done for many reasons, including the following: to detect kidney tumors to identify blockages or obstructions of the normal flow of urine to detect kidne...

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) What is magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)? MRI is a diagnostic procedure that uses a combination of a large magnet, radiofrequencies, and a computer to produce detailed images of organs and structures within the body. How does an MRI scan work? The MRI machine is a large, cylindrical (tube-shaped) machine that creates a strong magnetic field around the patient. The magnetic field, along with a radiofrequency, alters the hydrogen atoms' natural alignment in the body. Compu...

Mammography What is mammography (mammogram)? Mammography is an x-ray examination of the breast. It is used to detect and diagnose breast disease in women who either have breast problems such as a lump, pain, or nipple discharge, as well as for women who have no breast complaints. The procedure allows detection of breast cancers, benign tumors, and cysts before they can be detected by palpation (touch). Mammography cannot prove that an abnormal area is cancer, but if it raises a significant suspicion of ...

Online Resources - Radiology This Web was compiled from a variety of sources including the online resources listed below, but is not intended to substitute or replace the professional medical advice you receive from your physician. The content provided here is for informational purposes only, and was not designed to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease. Please consult your physician with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition. This page contains links to other World Wid...

Overview of Radiological Imaging How are radiological images produced? The various types of radiological procedures may be grouped by the means in which their images are produced: transmission imaging, reflection imaging, or emission imaging. transmission imaging X-rays, computed tomography (CT) scans, and fluoroscopy are radiological examinations whose images are produced by transmission. In transmission imaging, a beam of high-energy photons is produced and passed through the body structure being exam...

Positron Emission Tomography (PET) What is positron emission tomography (PET)? Positron emission tomography (PET) is a type of nuclear medicine procedure that measures metabolic activity of the cells of body tissues. PET is actually a combination of nuclear medicine and biochemical analysis. Used mostly in patients with brain or heart conditions and cancer, PET helps to visualize the biochemical changes taking place in the body, such as the metabolism (the process by which cells change food into energy ...

The Radiologist Who is the radiologist? Radiologists are medical doctors (MDs) or doctors of osteopathic medicine (DOs) who have completed a four year residency in either diagnostic radiology or radiation oncology. A radiologist may act as a consultant to another physician who is caring for the patient, or act as the patient's primary physician in treating a disease (such as a radiation oncologist). Following the residency, most radiologists and radiation oncologists become board-certified by the Americ...

The Radiology Team Who are the members of the radiology team? The quality performance of radiology examinations and procedures, along with accurate and timely interpretation of radiology procedure results, is accomplished by a team of various healthcare professionals. The radiology team includes physicians, technologists, and nurses. What do the radiology team members do? physicians The radiology team is led by one or more radiologists, who are physicians specializing in the field of radiology. Radiolog...

Topic Index - Radiology Radiology Home The Radiologist The Radiology Team Overview of Radiological Imaging Diagnostic Radiology Arteriogram (Angiogram) Barium X-ray (Upper and Lower GI) Computed Tomography (CT or CAT) Scan Fluoroscopy Intravenous Pyelogram (IVP) Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Mammogram Ultrafast CT (Computed Tomography) Scan Ultrasound X-ray Nuclear Medicine Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Therapeutic Radiology (Radiation Oncology) Therapeutic Radiology Overview External Beam Thera...

Ultrafast CT (Computed Tomography) Scan What is ultrafast CT? In standard x-rays, a beam of energy is aimed at the body part being studied. A plate behind the body part captures the variations of the energy beam after it passes through skin, bone, muscle, and other tissue. While much information can be obtained from a regular x-ray, a lot of detail about internal organs and other structures is not available. In a computed tomography (CT or CAT) scan, the x-ray beam moves in a circle around the body. Thi...