GTPSY, Brain Imaging Flashcards
What is an electroencephalogram? (EEG)
It measures electrical impulses from the human head. The EEG detects, amplifies and records the electrical activity and portrays it as brain waves on a computer screen.
Uses of an EEG?
It plays an important role in the study of consciousness and sleep.
It is also used to detect brain abnormalities caused by head injuries, epilepsy and other conditions.
Advantages of an EEG?
Hardware costs are lower than those of most other techniques, EEG prevents limited availability of technologists to provide immediate care in high traffic hospitals. EEG only requires a quiet room and briefcase-sized equipment.
Disadvantages of an EEG?
The EEG isn’t able to display the exact location of the activity.
What is a Computer Axial Tomography scan? (CAT)
A CT scan uses computers and rotating X-ray machines to create cross-sectional images of the body. These images provide more detailed information than typical X-ray images. They can show the soft tissues, blood vessels, and bones in various parts of the body.
Uses of a CAT scan?
A CT scan has many uses, but it’s particularly well-suited for diagnosing diseases and evaluating injuries.
Advantages of a CAT scan?
Painless
Accurate
Less restrictions than an MRI
Disadvantages of a CAT scan?
Not suitable for pregnant women
Expensive
Uses a lot of radiation
What is Magnetic Resonance Imaging? (MRI)
It uses harmless magnetic fields and radio waves to produce a computer-enhanced image of the structure of the brain.
Uses of MRI?
It is used to examine joint injuries, detect slipped discs in the spinal column, detect tiny lesions of multiple sclerosis on brain and spinal cord, and it also shows the location of cancerous tumors within the breasts.
Advantages of an MRI?
It produces detailed 3D computer-enhanced color images that can be manipulated by the researcher. It uses harmless magnetic fields and radio waves.
Disadvantages of an MRI?
MRI is expensive. It can’t be used on people with internal metal devices such as pacemakers as the metal interferes with the magnetic image and can pose a physical risk to the person. Some people find the MRI chamber claustrophobic and require sedation during the procedure.
What is Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging? (fMRI)
It’s a special imaging technology which is used to see which parts of the brain are active.
Uses of fMRI?
Monitor mental processes in real time.
It also allows us to compile a comprehensive brain profile that helps us to determine which areas of the brain are active during mental processes.
Advantages of fMRI?
FMRI produces high-resolution computer-enhanced 3D images of the brain and body to 1mm accuracy. It enables researchers to view the blood flow and oxygen consumption of a specific area of the brain. It provides detailed information about the physical structure and shows the brain in action.
