Imaging Techniques Flashcards

1
Q

What is X-Ray and what is it used for?

A

Uses X rays (very short wavelength electromagnetic waves)
Dense structures appear light. Hollow appear dark
Used for detecting broken bones; finding breast tumors; measuring density of bones.
Cons: radiation exposure

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2
Q

What is Computed Tomography (CT) scans? What is it used for?

A

Computerized reconstruction of a series of X-ray images
Provides detailed cross-sectional pictures
Used for images of bones, soft tissues, and blood vessels
Cons: more radiation exposure than X-rays

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3
Q

What is Digital subtraction angiography? What is it used for?

A

Angiography is visualizing blood vessels by X ray or CT scan
Injection of X-ray absorbing contrast agent
Digitally subtract images from before and after - - very clear images of blood vessels
-
Used for: detecting blood vessel abnormalities
Cons: Time-consuming and expensive. Can have reaction to agent.

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4
Q

What is Positron Emission Tomography? (PET) What is it used for?

A

Gamma rays that are emitted by radioactively tagged tracer molecules injected into the body.
Specific molecules are attracted to the target, thus showing where it is.
Used for: Detecting cancer or monitoring the response to treatment. Can sometimes diagnose Alzheimer’s disease.
Cons: radiation exposure; poo image resolution.

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5
Q

What is Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)? What is it used for?

A

Powerful magnets and radio waves to image location of hydrogen atoms (mostly in water)
Distinguishes between tissues with high/low water content.
Used for: Imaging of brain, spinal cord, and nerves to detect abnormalities; assessing joint, ligament, cartilage, and other soft tissues; fMRI allows visualization of the activity in specific brain regions
Cons: more expensive and much slower than CT
Cannot be used with metal implants

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6
Q

What is Ultrasound Imaging? What is it used for?

A

Uses high-frequency sound waves that reflect off body tissues
Real-time
Inexpensive and easy to use
Used for: Monitoring a fetus; diagnosing abdominal or pelvic disorders; can detect atherosclerosis and heart valve disorders.
Not used for: air filled structures and surrounded by bones
Cons: Images tend to be lower resolution.

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