Basics of Imaging Modalities (Midterm Content)

Question 1

X-ray

Answer 1

• good for bones and fractures (also CT)
• fast, open (not enclosed), no sedation, and mobile
• ionizing radiation

Question 2

Ultrasound

Answer 2

• best for soft tissues (also MRI)
• fast, open (not enclosed), no sedation, and mobile
• non-radiating – often preferred in children and women when possible

Question 3

CT

Answer 3

• good for bones and fractures (also x-ray)
• fastest and readily available for trauma or whole body
• more time, closed, tight spaces, less available, and costly
• ionizing radiation

Question 4

MRI

Answer 4

• best for soft tissues (also ultrasound)
• less available, but detailed and often last test
• more time, closed, tight spaces, less available, and costly
• non-radiating – often preferred in children and women when possible