Use of Imaging Technology in Diagnosis of Disease

Advancements in medical imaging technology have revolutionized the medical world that we are in today, allowing for earlier diagnoses of diseases, better patient outcomes, and reducing the need for invasive procedures.

Radiology is the department of medicine that utilizes the power of diagnostic imaging to deliver crucial information to other medical professionals. Medical Imaging refers to technologies used to view the human body to diagnose, monitor, or treat medical conditions. 

There are many types of diagnostic imaging exams, all with their distinct differences, but with the common goal of identifying abnormalities in the body. These imaging modalities include: Ultrasound, X-ray, MRI, and CT scans.

X-rays –A low-cost, powerful imaging tool that is frequently used in medical diagnosis. Images are generated with the use of electromagnetic radiation waves. These images show bones, blood vessels, and soft tissue inside the body. This quick and painless modality is used mainly to diagnose bone and joint-related conditions such as fractures. This exam is considered the simplest form of diagnostic imaging and has been around for over 100 years.

Computed tomography (CT) scans use X-ray images taken from several angles to create cross-sectional imaging “slices” of the body. This is considered to be a more advanced form of X-ray imaging. These images can create a 3-D view of the patient’s body. CT scans are especially helpful for patients suffering from internal trauma or injuries, but can also assist in diagnosing disorders, locating tumors or blood clots, and even guiding physicians during surgeries or biopsy procedures.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging, also known as MRI, uses powerful magnets and radio waves to generate 3-D pictures of the body. MRI does not use radiation of any kind, which makes it preferable by many, and is a non-invasive way of examining your organs, tissues, and skeletal system. MRI can reveal tumors in the body, identify soft tissue diseases, evaluate the brain and spinal cord, and diagnose malformations of blood vessels. A single MRI can generate hundreds of images that a radiologist is then able to analyze.

Ultrasound is a form of diagnostic imaging which relies on sound waves and their echoes to visualize tissues in the body. An ultrasound scan offers many distinct advantages over other scans. Ultrasounds are great at visualizing soft tissues, such as organs and muscles. As the sound waves encounter tissues of different densities, an echo reflects and is measured by the machine. Many patients and doctors prefer ultrasound over other diagnostic imaging tests due to its safety, convenience, and low cost.

Your referring physician will consider your own unique condition when determining what form of diagnostic imaging is best suited to you. At Bellevue Medical Imaging we are utilizing state-of-the-art imaging equipment and can quickly provide accurate images and results to referring physicians. For more information on our imaging services, call (425) 454-1700