CLINICAL - Advanced Imaging Flashcards
What is the main advantage of advanced imaging (CT and MRI)?
CT and MRI avoid superimposition
Describe briefly how computed tomography (CT) works
An X-ray tube rotates around the body while detectors measure the x-rays that pass through. Back projection takes the measurements obtained by the x-ray detectors and uses them to create a 2D image
Which anatomical structures are best imaged by computed tomography (CT)?
Skeletal structures
Lungs
Why is computed tomography (CT) better for identifying small lesions compared to radiography?
CT has a higher resolution than radiography so is better at identifying small lesions
Which anatomical structures are best imaged by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)?
Soft tissue structures (i.e. central nervous system)
Describe briefly how magnetic resonance imagine (MRI) works
Magnetic field aligns with the hydrogen atoms in the body and radio waves are sent through the body, causing the atoms to emit a signal which can be detected by the machine and used to create detailed images
How does fluid appear in T1-weighted images?
Hypointense (black)
How does fluid appear in T2-weighted images?
Hyperintense (white)
What is fluid attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) imaging?
FLAIR is an imaging technique used in MRI which suppresses the signals from fluid in the body, but free fluid remains hypointense so can be used to identify oedema
Which contrast medium is used in T1-weighted + contrast imaging?
Gadolinium
What is the typical brain MRI sequence?
T2W Sagittal plane
T2W Dorsal plane
T2W, T1W, FLAIR, T1W+contrast Transverse plane
What is fluoroscopy useful for?
Dynamic disease
Interventional procedures
Identify the following structures on this T2W sagittal MRI
Identify the following structures on this T2W transverse MRI
Identify the following structures on this T2W dorsal MRI
