Medical Imaging Techniques Quiz

A medical imaging technique that uses X-rays to create detailed cross-sectional images of the body.

The CT scanner uses a rotating X-ray tube to create multiple images of the target area.

CT scanners have evolved over time, with increases in the number of detectors and decreases in scan time.

Multi-slice CT uses multiple detectors to collect data simultaneously, enabling faster scans and more efficient use of X-rays.

A compact and faster version of CT that uses a cone-shaped X-ray beam.

Medical imaging uses different techniques to visualize internal body structures, obtain images, provide structural or anatomical information, and sometimes functional information. It's mostly non-invasive and painless.

An image is a representation of how a property is distributed within an object. It's created by transferring information from the object into an image using energy.

X-rays are a type of electromagnetic radiation used in medical imaging. It travels in straight lines and is absorbed or scattered by matter, providing information about the body's internal structures.

The amount of X-rays absorbed by tissues depends on how dense they are. Dense tissues like bone absorb more X-rays.

Contrast agents like iodine or barium are used in X-ray imaging to make specific structures visible. These agents have different densities than surrounding tissues, improving contrast.

X-rays have limitations such as difficulty showing low-contrast tissues and providing only a 2D view, meaning depth perception is lacking.

CT (Computed Tomography) scans use X-rays to create detailed 3D images of the body. It's like taking many X-ray slices and stacking them together to create a comprehensive view.

MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) uses magnetic fields to create detailed images of organs and soft tissues. It is used for diagnosis of many different conditions.

The first generation of CT scanners used a single detector and a pencil-like x-ray beam. It required a slow translat-rotate motion, resulting in scan times of approximately 25-30 minutes.

Second-generation CT scanners improved upon their predecessors by utilizing multiple detectors (up to 30) and a fan-shaped x-ray beam. The translat-rotate motion remained, but scan times significantly decreased to less than 90 seconds.

Third-generation CT scanners featured an array of detectors arranged in an arc, capturing data from a fan-shaped x-ray beam. The tube-detector system now rotated continuously, drastically reducing scan time to approximately 5 seconds.

Fourth-generation CT scanners employ a fixed ring of over 2000 detectors, enabling the x-ray tube to rotate continuously while the detectors remain stationary. The scan time is further reduced to a few seconds, enhancing efficiency and accuracy.

Helical CT, also known as spiral CT, is a technique that captures data continuously as the x-ray tube and detector system move along a helical path. This allows for faster and more efficient image acquisition.

Dual-energy CT (DECT) utilizes two different x-ray beams with distinct energy levels to capture information about tissue composition. This enables improved material differentiation and enhanced image quality.

MRI utilizes a strong magnetic field and radiofrequency pulses to create images of hydrogen distribution within the body, providing detailed visualization of soft tissues.

MRI offers several advantages over other imaging modalities. It does not employ ionizing radiation, excels in visualizing soft tissues, and allows the use of contrast agents to highlight specific areas.

A medical imaging technique that uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of organs and tissues.

MRI is used for diagnosis, localization, and follow-up of various medical conditions. It can also be used in planning radiotherapy treatments when combined with CT data.

A disadvantage of MRI is that patients with metal implants in their bodies cannot be scanned, unless the implants are non-ferromagnetic, like titanium.

In modern MRI, technologies allow us to plan directly from MRI scans. Algorithms can extract information and create images, reducing the need for separate CT scans.

A medical imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of internal structures.

Ultrasound is used to visualize internal structures, differentiate solid masses from fluid-filled cysts, and can also be used to guide biopsies.

Ultrasound is relatively cheap, safe as it doesn't use ionizing radiation, and provides real-time images.

Ultrasound examinations can be subjective, meaning interpretations can vary between operators, and sometimes the images can be difficult to interpret.

A type of medical imaging that uses radioactive substances to visualize the function of organs and tissues.

In Radionuclide Imaging, a radioactive isotope is combined with a pharmaceutical, which then targets a specific biological function. The emitted gamma rays are detected by a gamma camera to create images.

A type of medical imaging that uses a radioactive tracer to detect and measure metabolic activity in the body. This allows doctors to see how organs are functioning and can help identify cancerous cells.

PET imaging is often combined with other imaging modalities, such as CT or MRI, to provide a more complete view of the body. This allows for more precise diagnosis and treatment planning.

CT scans provide detailed anatomical information about the body, while PET scans show metabolic activity. Combining these two imaging modalities allows for more accurate localization of tumors and evaluation of their spread.

CT and MRI are both used for diagnosis and treatment planning in oncology. CT focuses on accurate anatomical details, while MRI offers higher resolution detail and soft tissue contrast, making it well-suited for treatment planning.

CT is the standard imaging modality for radiotherapy planning. It provides detailed anatomical information for targeting tumors and helps identify sensitive structures. The data can be directly transferred to planning software, streamlining the process.

The process of generating virtual images of the patient from CT data, showing the target area from the perspective of the radiotherapy beam. This helps ensure the treatment is accurately directed.

CT simulation images are attached to the treatment sheet, and setup information is completed before radiation therapy begins. This helps ensure the patient is accurately positioned for treatment delivery.

CT is the standard for radiotherapy planning, but other modalities can be registered or fused with CT to enhance the planning process. This allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the patient's anatomy and helps improve treatment accuracy.

A process of ensuring the accurate positioning of a patient for radiotherapy treatment, using various imaging techniques to verify and adjust the treatment plan.

A process of comparing images taken before or during treatment with the reference images to ensure the accuracy of the treatment plan.

A type of treatment verification that uses images taken immediately before treatment delivery, allowing for adjustments to be made in real-time.

A type of treatment verification that compares images taken after treatment delivery to the reference images, allowing for adjustments to be made before the next treatment session.

A type of imaging that uses X-rays to produce images of the patient's anatomy. commonly used for IGRT in radiotherapy.

Periodic assessments after treatment to monitor the response of the tumour, evaluate the effectiveness of treatment, and determine if further treatment is required.

A powerful and versatile medical imaging technique using strong magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the body's internal structures, including organs and soft tissues. Often used for diagnosis and planning of various medical interventions, including radiotherapy.