Which imaging modality to use




















The CT scanner has a large circular opening so that the patient can lie on a motorised table. CT scans provide greater clarity than conventional X-rays , producing more detailed images of the internal organs, bones, soft tissue and blood vessels within the body FDA The benefits of using CT scans far exceed the risks, which like with X-rays include an increased risk of cancer, harm to an unborn child or a reaction to the contrast agent or dye used. MRI uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to generate detailed images of organs, soft tissues, bones, ligaments and cartilage NPS MedicineWise It is commonly used to examine internal body structures in order to assess:.

As we know, the human body is made mostly of water, and each water molecule contains a hydrogen nucleus proton. An MRI scanner uses a strong magnetic field to force the protons to align to that field. A radio frequency is then applied, which stimulates the protons and spins them out of equilibrium. Protons in different body tissues return to their normal alignment at different rates, allowing the MRI to distinguish between various types of tissue and identify any abnormalities.

However, there are other disadvantages associated with its use. As strong magnets are used, metal implants such as pacemakers and implantable cardioverter-defibrillators ICDs in the patient's body can be hazardous as they may be moved or heated up within the magnetic field Cleveland Clinic Other disadvantages associated with MRI include:.

Your doctor may order an MRI if there is suspected soft tissue damage, brain or heart abnormalities, or concerns with the functioning of organs. CT scans use the same electromagnetic radiation as a standard x-ray machine. They are useful for looking at bones, organs, and other internal structures. Your doctor may order a CT scan to look for clots, infections, or tumors. CT scans can be particularly useful in monitoring the effectiveness of cancer treatments by monitoring the size of tumors and looking for decreases in size.

Ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of internal structures. Ultrasound involves no magnets or radiation, so it is a safe alternative for all patients.

Ultrasounds can detect abnormalities in organs and blood vessels, and can be used to see inside internal organs. FDG provides a measure of the metabolic activity of cells; for example, highly active cancer cells show higher levels of FDG uptake, whereas brain cells affected in a context of dementia show lower FDG uptake. Combinations of techniques have also emerged to address specific diagnostics needs of certain diseases and to increase sensitivity.

Deciding what parameter to measure is more challenging. In cancer, the gold standard for determining benefit from an investigational product is whether there is an improvement in overall survival.

But achieving this endpoint might not always be easy. Over the years, numerous imaging markers and surrogate endpoints have been developed to assess early whether a treatment provides clinical benefit and to optimize patient comfort and safety. That is, it is equally important to remove a patient early during the course of a clinical trial if there is clear imaging evidence to indicate that therapy has no significant beneficial effect.

For example, with the fast ascent of immunotherapies, the novel iRECIST criteria were developed to evaluate anti-tumor responses of immunotherapeutic agents.

Imaging Technology Screening Questions. Different Types of Imaging Tests: Sorting Out the Differences If your doctor has ordered a medical imaging exam for you, you might have questions about the type of scan or test you will be having.

What to expect: You will lie, sit, or stand while the x-ray machine takes images. You may be asked to move into several positions. Duration: minutes Imaging Method: ionizing radiation Used to diagnose: bone fractures; arthritis; osteoporosis; infections; breast cancer; swallowed items; digestive tract problems CT Scan: CT scans use a series of x-rays to create cross-sections of the inside of the body, including bones, blood vessels, and soft tissues. What to expect: You will lie on a table that slides into the scanner, which looks like a large doughnut.

The x-ray tube rotates around you to take images. Duration: minutes Imaging Method: ionizing radiation Used to diagnose: injuries from trauma; bone fractures; tumors and cancers; vascular disease; heart disease; infections; used to guide biopsies MRI: MRIs use magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of organs and tissues in the body.



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