Diagnostic Radiology: Imaging Modalities

What is the topic of Lecture 2 in Diagnostic Radiology?

Which imaging modality uses ionizing radiation?

What is the name of the image formed using broad beam ionizing radiation?

What is the image formed in Plain films related to?

What may be used in Plain films?

What is a common indication for requesting a chest x-ray?

What is another indication for requesting a plain x-ray?

What is the purpose of a plain x-ray before introducing a contrast medium?

What is another medical application of plain x-rays?

What is the purpose of a plain x-ray in musculoskeletal diseases?

What is the main limitation of conventional radiographs that leads to the need for a better modality?

How are images formed in CT scans?

What is the main advantage of CT scans over conventional radiography?

What is the purpose of a CT scanner?

What is the advantage of CT scans in differentiating anatomic structures and abnormalities?

What is the image display method in CT scans?

What is the advantage of CT scans in pre-surgical planning?

What is the term for the sheets of glass that cut through the body in various ways in CT scans?

What is the orientation of the axial imaging plane in CT scans?

What is the term for the latest technology in CT scanners?

Imaging modalities used in diagnostic radiology include plain x-rays, CT scan, MRI, nuclear imaging/PET, ultrasound, mammography, angiography, and fluoroscopy.
Some of these modalities use ionizing radiation, which includes plain x-rays, CT scan, and fluoroscopy.

Also known as "plain films" or "standard films"
Image formed using broad beam ionizing radiation
The image formed is related to the subject's density
May involve the use of contrast agents, such as iodinated, barium, and air
Indications for requesting x-rays include:
- Chest x-ray for primary lung disease and pulmonary effects of diseases in other organ systems
- Abdomen and pelvis cavity for obstruction of the bowel, perforation, renal pathology, and acute abdomen
- Musculoskeletal diseases, such as fractures and dislocations, serious injury or foreign bodies, and pathology

The elimination of superimposed structures
The ability to differentiate small differences in density of anatomic structures and abnormalities
The superior quality of the images
CT is used to determine the extent of trauma, location and type of tumors, status of blood vessels, and pre-surgical planning