RADIOGRAPHIC EXAMINATIONS

Question 1

angiography

Answer 1

insertion of a catheter into a patient’s vein or artery; dye is then injected and a series of x-rays helps assess the vessel’s blood flow and condition

Question 2

barium studies

Answer 2

a lower GI series or barium enema requires barium sulfate to be instilled through the anus into the rectum and the colon to help diagnose and evaluate obstruction. The upper GI series or barium swallow involves oral administration of barium sulfate to visualize the esophagus stomach, duodenum, and small intestines.

Question 3

computed tomography (CT)

Answer 3

allows cross-sectional views of the area in question; the x-ray camera rotates around the patient and produces a series of views of a body part

Question 4

magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

Answer 4

a combination of nonionizing radiation and a strong magnetic field allow for examination of internal structures and soft tissues of the body based on water content of tissue

Question 5

intravenous pyelogram (IVP)

Answer 5

also called excretory urography; involves injection of contrast medium into a vein; a series of x-rays are taken as the medium travels through the kidneys, ureters, and bladder

Question 6

kidney, ureter, and bladder (KUB) radiography

Answer 6

also called flat plate of the abdomen; x-ray of the abdomen to assess the size, shape, and position of the urinary organs. No contrast medium is used

Question 7

ultrasound

Answer 7

uses high-frequency inaudible sound waves through the skin over the area being examined and produces an image based on echoes