Radiology is a series of tests. This process allows you to take pictures of different parts of the body. The field of radiology is divided into two areas-diagnostic radiology and interventional radiology. Both of them use radiant energy to diagnose and treat diseases. Some common imaging examinations include – X-ray, MRI, Ultrasound, CT Scan etc. Radiology is the branch of medicine which uses radiation for treatment. This branch of medicine uses radiant energy in the diagnosis and any treatment of the disease.
The history of radiology timeline covers the Originals of Radiology from 1895. Wilhelm Röntgen discovered X-ray for the first time. The 1970s is called the golden decade of radiology. Earlier decades are subdivided into areas of interest which focuses on radiology, radiography, radiotherapy, radio biology, medical physics and diagnostic imaging. Conrad made an energized, lightproof cathode ray that started to fluoresce. He knew exactly the screen was responding to unknown rays transmitted throughout the room, which he called x-rays.
The modern use of radiology has been one of the greatest advantages. It allows the doctors to diagnose to manage their patients’ diseases safely and rapidly. It enables more effective medical management mostly where – surgeries are necessary, reducing the need of exploratory surgeries, reducing the length of hospitalization, improving patient placement into appropriate areas such as ICU.
Plain radiographs are often done to look at the bones, the chest, or the abdomen. With X-Rays the denser structures, such as bones, appear white and with air filled areas seem to appear black. May be used to diagnose such as fractures, pneumonia, and a bowel obstruction.
Computed Tomography – It uses a series of X-rays plus a computer to produce cross-sectional images. It is widely used to see inside the body.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging – It used strong fields and radio waves to produce images inside the body. CT is often a better method for evaluating bones and blood vessels.
Ultrasound uses sound waves to produce moving images of a part of the body. It is the best method to examine a foetus during pregnancy. Breast Ultrasound, Heart Ultrasound, Thyroid Ultrasound, Abdominal Ultrasound and Pelvic Ultrasound are some types of ultrasound done.
Fluoroscopy- It uses X-ray in real time. It creates moving images of the body. These real time images are particularly important for treatments.
Some side effects of radiology must be kept in mind. Since X-rays and CT Scans are forms of ionising radiation, they may increase the risk of cancer. Greater procedures such as CT or Fluoroscopy is a concern in children than in adults. It is vitally important to weigh the risks and benefits of the imaging procedures. Well, some people think of radiology as a field that’s only limited to X-rays and CT scans. The scope of radiology is in fact much wider.
Being your own advocate is critical in terms of health and medicine. It is important to know the benefits and limitations of any diagnostic or therapeutic imaging techniques
