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.