Most of us have had at least one CT scan or MRI image taken of our bodies at some point during our lives. Those of us who have undergone such procedures have trusted radiologists to perform such medical imaging on us. Radiology, put simply, is the medical specialty that concerns taking images of the body to diagnose and treat illnesses ranging from common colds to the most severe stages of cancer. Here are the most common uses of radiologic medical imaging in today’s world of medicine.

Computerized Axial Tomography Scans

Also known as CAT scans or computed tomography scans, computerized axial tomography scanning creates cross-sections of parts of the human body. These scans are performed by having a patient lay down on a table that slides into a large scanning machine. After a few seconds, the patient is removed. Doctors usually use CAT scans to look at cross-sections of the head, spine, and pelvic area.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging Scans

Magnetic resonance imaging scans, also known as MRI scans, utilizes the power of radio waves and electromagnetic power to take pictures of the body. Rather than taking a single cross-section of a portion of the human body, MRI scans produce dozens of slices, as they’re referred to by medical professionals, that doctors can scroll through to determine what’s wrong with patients. In some cases, just one MRI scan is used to produce hundreds of individual, unique images.

X-Ray Mammograms

Unlike the previous two types of scans, radiologists use x-rays more frequently than any other type of technology. X-rays are just another type of light wave on the light spectrum. Invisible to the human eye, x-rays are often used to conduct exams of females’ breasts. Mammograms are most frequently used to determine if women have tumors in their breasts and to determine if they’re cancerous or not.

Radiology is one of the most widespread specialties within the realm of modern medicine. If you’re looking for diagnostic imaging in new jersey, our team at Woodbridge Radiology will perform top-notch work using state-of-the-art technology on you to diagnose and treat ailments.