Why is medical imaging important

Medical imaging also is used by surgeons as an aid in surgical procedures. One example of medical imaging as an effective surgical tool is in the case of endoscopic sinus surgery. The extensive network of the sinus can be examined closely prior to the procedure through study of a CT scan.

CT scans can provide 3D images of various cross-sections of the body—images which are of absolute necessity when preparing to operate on such an area. CT scans are also being utilised more frequently during surgical procedures, for a similar purpose of guiding physicians throughout a delicate internal operation. Medical imaging is truly a vital element of the healthcare world—an essential tool for physicians to assist with diagnostics, treatment, and prevention.

As technology continues to advance at a rapid rate, we will see growth in medical imaging technology as well. With scientific advancement and a continued effective use, medical imaging will continue to help with earlier detection of health issues, aid in easier treatment, and provide increased preventative care. Technological improvements in CT such as dose modulation acquisition techniques and iterative reconstruction algorithms dramatically reduce the required X-Ray dose, improve hospital efficiency and clinical effectiveness and reduce costs.

Molecular Imaging is a diagnostic tool where metabolic processes can be visualised by administering small amounts of radioactive pharmaceuticals to patients. These accumulate in a specific part of the body in a controlled way. Unlike other ionizing radiation techniques, which can only generate anatomical images, this technique generates functional images.

Some conditions initially have a physiological effect, rather than an anatomical change in the body. Molecular imaging allows for an earlier diagnosis. AIPES has developed a comprehensive tool on nuclear medicine.

See website for further information. PET and SPECT are types of nuclear imagine techniques that provide physicians with information about how tissues and organs are functioning.

These two techniques generate images that reveal the metabolism of the body, or the behaviour of certain particles, but cannot generate images of the anatomical structures. There are other medical imaging techniques that do not use ionizing radiation, using instead Magnetic fields, radio frequency or ultrasound radiation, that up to the moment have been proved to cause limited harm to the human body, therefore reducing the collateral damage to the surrounding tissue that is caused by ionizing radiation.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging MRI is a technology that uses radio waves and a magnetic field to provide detailed images of organs and tissues. The first magnetic resonance image was taken in and the first MRI scanner for medical imaging was developed in The type of radiation in this kind of imaging technique generates images of the soft tissues, omitting the bones. With the use of ultrasound technology, the doctor can see your baby and check its development during pregnancy.

Your doctor can identify any abnormalities as well as confirm normal development of your baby. It is one of the best methods available to monitor an unborn baby. Early detection has a better prognosis.

Once doctors identify issues, they can treat accordingly. For example, nuclear medicine tests can detect heart conditions before they worsen to the point of needing surgery. Diseases and conditions caught in the late stages usually require more intensive treatment or surgery, which normally comes with higher costs and complications. Conservative treatment methods provided early on can typically reduce your healthcare costs. At Independent Imaging , we always stay on top of new developments in the field of radiology.

Nothing makes us happier than discovering new ways to better care for our patients. We offer comprehensive diagnostic imaging services and use only state-of-the-art tools and technologies. Because the truth is, we believe you deserve nothing but the best. And as part of our services, we offer compassionate care. We understand that diagnostics can make patients anxious, which is why it is our duty to make sure you are relaxed and calm during your imaging test.

If you have any questions about our diagnostic services, please call or request an appointment now.