RADIOLOGY
adiology is the science of using medical imaging to help see structures inside the human body and hence knowing what may be ailing inside a diseased human body.
Radiology is a medical breakthrough that has come to provide more improved and effective ways to investigate the human body and how it works for the effective treatment of diseases. This breakthrough was discovered by Wilhelm Roentgen in 1895 who was successful at taking the first x-ray. His experiment of passing electricity current through a tube birthed radiology which was built upon by others, subsequently leading to other imagining technologies.
Types of Radiology
Radiology may be engaged on two fronts: diagnostic radiology and interventional radiology. When radiology is used in diagnostics, it uses diagnostic images to detect and establish the cause of symptoms and screen for other illnesses. It can also be used to monitor how a person is responding to one treatment or another. Computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), magnetic resonance angiography (MRA), x-rays, Electrocardiography (ECHO) and ultrasound are some examples of diagnostic radiology.
On the other hand, interventional radiology is used to guide procedures. For example, when a doctor wants to insert anything into a body – tools, small instruments, wires, catheters, etc. this kind of radiology comes in handy with interventional radiologist using fluoroscopy, ultrasound, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging. This arm of radiology is usually found in the treatment of cancers and tumours, fibroids in the uterus, back pain as well as liver and kidney problems.
Doctors who specialize in radiology are called radiologist. In the healthcare infrastructure they may not be direct care givers, but their role is very critical to the overall investigation of symptoms and cause of ailment.
Radiology and Health Screening
As people get more interested in their personal health – especially considering preventive health, periodic health screening is always advised. Many radiology procedures abound to facilitate these screenings. Mammography, for example, is an x-ray examination of the breasts to detect and diagnose breast abnormalities. Mammography is the most effective imaging modality for detecting breast cancer at an early stage. Screening Mammography is a preventive measure for symptomless women aged 40 and above, 2 views of each breast are taken and assessed by the Specialist Radiologist. This procedure is recommended annually.
Diagnostic Mammography is a basic view with/without additional views of the breast to further evaluate an abnormality found during screening, or in women and men who have breast complaints, such as a breast mass, nipple discharge, breast pain, or skin irritation.
A Computed Tomography (CT) scan assembles a series of X-ray images, or slices, to create a more detailed view of the inside of the body as well as advanced-imaging procedures such as CT angiography, which helps in diagnosing cardiovascular conditions like pulmonary embolisms (blood clots).
An electrocardiogram (ECG) is a simple test that can be used to check your heart's rhythm and electrical activity. An ECG may be requested by any doctor who thinks you might have a problem with your heart. Sensors attached to the arms, legs and chest area are used to detect the electrical signals produced by your heart each time it beats. These signals are recorded by a machine and are looked at by a qualified doctor to diagnose any potential problems with your heart function.
Spirometry is a simple test used to help diagnose and monitor certain lung conditions by measuring how much air you can breathe out in one forced breath. A device called a spirometer, which is a portable machine is used for this procedure.
Saline Infusion Sonohysterogram (SIS) is another specialized procedure to support gynaecological care. SIS is a safe and painless procedure that uses sound waves and fluid infusion into the womb to generate images of a woman’s womb and cavity. It helps in diagnosis of female fertility and health issues such as unexplained vaginal bleeding, fibroids and endometrial cancer.
Echocardiogram, also known as an ‘ECHO’, is a specialised cardiac ultrasound scan used to assess the structure and function of the heart. It can produce images of your heart chambers as well as your heart's blood vessels. Echocardiogram uses sound waves to create a picture produced by an ultrasound to check for possible damage for conditions that affect heart function. The test determines whether your heart and valves are functioning and can be used to diagnose heart problems.
Radiology, as a growing discipline and continues to add its contribution to the healthcare system. As humankind advances in knowledge, only time will tell the full extent of its potential.
References:
