Introduction to Radiologic Technology

Introduction to Radiologic Technology

• X-rays were developed, not discovered; significant contributions shaped their evolution.
• William Crookes invented the Crookes tube, a key device for early radiography.
• Crookes tubes are partially evacuated glass tubes essential for x-ray generation.
• Wilhelm Roentgen, known as the Father of Radiologic Technology, discovered x-rays on November 8, 1895, at Wurzburg University, Germany.
• Roentgen published the first x-ray image, depicting his wife's hand, in February 1896.
• Early x-ray diagnostic procedures took 30 minutes or longer to complete.
• Michael Pupin demonstrated radiographic intensifying screens in 1896, reducing x-ray exposure by 95%.
• Thomas Edison developed the fluoroscope in 1898, utilizing barium platinocyanide as the original fluorescent material.
• Advancements in fluorescent materials include zinc, cadmium, sulfide, and calcium tungstate.
• Roentgen was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1901 for his pioneering work.
• Charles L. Leonard introduced double emulsion radiography in 1904, improving image quality.
• William Rollins demonstrated collimation and filtration—processes that absorb low-energy x-rays using aluminum and copper.
• Collimation restricts the useful x-ray beam, reduces scatter radiation, and enhances image contrast.
• H.C. Snook introduced the interrupterless transformer in 1907, improving x-ray machine design.
• William D. Coolidge introduced the Coolidge x-ray tube in 1913, a pivotal advancement in x-ray technology.
• Gustav Bucky invented the stationary grid in 1913 to enhance image quality by reducing scatter radiation.
• Hollis Potter developed the moving grid in 1915, further improving radiographic images.
• The Potter-Bucky grid was introduced in 1921, combining stationary and moving grid concepts.
• Diagnostic ultrasound and gamma cameras emerged in the 1960s, expanding imaging capabilities.
• The 1970s saw the development of PET and CT scans, revolutionizing diagnostic imaging.
• MRI became an accepted imaging modality in the 1980s, offering non-ionizing radiation imaging.

Basic Radiation Protection

• Radiation exposure should be kept As Low As Reasonably Achievable (ALARA).
• Filtration involves inserting metal filters (like aluminum or copper) into x-ray tubes to absorb low-energy x-rays before they reach the patient.
• Collimation limits the irradiated area to reduce unnecessary exposure and improve image quality.
• Protective apparel, made from lead, is worn by radiologic technologists (RT) for safety.
• Gonadal shielding is crucial for individuals of childbearing age, ensuring diagnostic exams are not affected.
• Protective barriers, like a lead-lined radiographic console barrier with a lead glass window, safeguard RTs from radiation.

Types of Radiation

• Ionizing radiation can remove electrons from atoms, posing a risk for cellular damage.
• Non-ionizing radiation, such as infrared and microwaves, does not cause cancer and is considered safer.

What’s Inside the Radiology Department

• X-ray machines are fundamental for generating internal body images, including:
  • General radiography, the most basic imaging tool primarily for bones.
  • Portable x-ray machines for patients who cannot be easily transported.
  • Fluoroscopy systems, which allow real-time viewing of moving body systems but emit higher radiation.
  • Digital radiography, which eliminates film usage and offers easier image processing.
  • Mammography, tailored for breast imaging with low radiation exposure.
• CT (computed tomography) scans combine x-rays and computer technology for detailed internal images from multiple angles.
• Nuclear medicine uses radioactive tracers (radiopharmaceuticals) for diagnosis and treatment.
• Ultrasound employs sound waves for real-time imaging without radiation, though it is operator-dependent.
• MRI utilizes magnets and radio waves to produce images without ionizing radiation.
• Diagnostic Radiology involves imaging for patient diagnosis, while Therapeutic Radiology (radiation oncology) focuses on treating diseases with radiation, using:
  • Linear accelerators for targeted high-energy x-rays against tumors.
  • Brachytherapy, where radiation is administered directly to the treatment site.

Who is Inside the Radiology Department

• Radiologic technologists (rad-tech) perform medical imaging exams on patients.
• Radiologists are specialists who interpret and diagnose from medical images.
• Radiation oncologists calculate necessary radiation doses for patient treatment.
• Medical physicists oversee machine operations, ensuring safe and effective use.
• Other personnel manage and assist with medical treatment and procedures.