What is Radiological Imaging and Why Is It Necessary?
Radiological imaging is a medical field that creates detailed pictures of the internal structures and organs of the body using various technologies. These methods are indispensable parts of modern medicine, used for diagnosing diseases, monitoring the course of existing illnesses and responses to treatment, as well as guiding during some interventional procedures. By making invisible problems visible, they enable physicians to reach accurate diagnoses more quickly and precisely.
Each imaging method has a different technology and an area of prominence. The choice of method is determined by the relevant physician based on the patient's complaints and preliminary diagnosis.
Commonly Used Imaging Methods
The main radiological imaging services we utilize in our clinic or affiliated centers for our patients' diagnosis and follow-up processes are as follows:
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X-Ray (Röntgen):
It is the most basic and oldest imaging method. It uses low-dose X-ray radiation and is particularly used for imaging dense tissues such as bones. It is often the first choice for evaluating bone fractures, dislocations, and lung diseases (such as pneumonia). -
Ultrasonography (USG):
A method that creates real-time images using high-frequency sound waves that cannot be heard by the human ear. Because it does not involve radiation, it can be safely used in everyone, including pregnant women and children. It is very valuable for evaluating the liver, gallbladder, kidneys, pancreas, thyroid gland, breast, and female reproductive organs. The form used to examine blood flow in vessels is called "Doppler Ultrasonography." -
Computed Tomography (CT):
An advanced technique that uses X-rays from different angles to produce cross-sectional and highly detailed images of the body. It can visualize bones, soft tissues, and blood vessels at the same time with high quality. It is especially used in emergency situations (trauma, stroke), cancer staging, and complex internal organ investigations. -
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI):
A method that creates images using a strong magnetic field and radio waves instead of radiation. It is considered the "gold standard" especially for detailed examination of the brain, spinal cord, joints (meniscus, ligaments), muscles, and other soft tissues. -
Bone Densitometry (DEXA):
A special test that measures bone mineral density using low-dose X-ray radiation. It is particularly used for the diagnosis and monitoring of osteoporosis (bone thinning).
These imaging methods are invaluable tools that help your physician scientifically identify the underlying cause of your complaints and guide your treatment process correctly. The images taken are thoroughly examined by radiologists specialized in this field and presented in a report to the relevant physician.
This content has been translated using artificial intelligence technology.