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Glossary
Diagnostic imaging procedures –
a brief description
Angiography
Angiography is a specialised diagnostic imaging procedure where a catheter
(small flexible tube) is threaded into an artery or vein, generally in
the groin area. An interventional radiologist threads the tube using an
x-ray monitor as a guide. When the catheter has reached the area to be
examined a contrast is injected. The contrast clearly outlines the blood vessels
and enables the interventional radiologist to see any irregularities or
blockages. The images taken are called angiograms.
DEXA Bone Densitometry
DEXA (Dual Energy X-ray Absorption) Bone Densitometry is a method used
for measuring the density of bone and diagnosing osteoporosis. If osteoporosis
can be detected and treated early, the risk of a fracture as a result
of osteoporosis is decreased significantly.
Computer Assisted
Tomography - CT Scans
Computer Assisted Tomography (CT Scans), are x-ray examinations. The
machine, which resembles a large donut (gantry), has a flat table which
passes through it. The patient is placed on the table and slowly passed
through the opening in the gantry. The images produced on film are called
slices, and these give the Radiologist a cross-sectional view of the scanned
area, resulting in more accurate and earlier diagnosis.
Magnetic Resonance
Imaging (MRI)
MRI provides detailed images of soft tissues, bone, fat, muscles and internal
organs which cannot be successfully imaged by x-ray or ultrasound. The
machine, called a Magnetic Resonance Scanner uses a strong magnetic field
and radio waves. The images, like the CT Scan, are produced
in slices, giving a cross-sectional view of the scanned area.
Mammography
A mammogram obtains information about a variety of breast conditions by
the use of X-ray imaging of the breast.
The technique uses compression of the breast tissue to obtain clear images.
Views are taken from several angles to ensure complete coverage of both
breasts and it is possible your test may be supplemented by an ultrasound
examination.
Nuclear Medicine
This branch of medicine uses radiation to provide information about the
body's anatomy of the functioning of specific organs. The information
enables physicians to provide a quick and accurate diagnosis of conditions
such as thyroid disorders, heart disease and bone fractures. The tests
are painless and most scans expose patients to only minimal amounts of
radiation and provide an effective means of examining whether some tissues
are functioning properly.
Therapy using nuclear medicine is an effective and safe way of controlling,
and in some cases eliminating, conditions such as overractive thyroid,
thyroid cancer and arthritis.
Ultrasound
Ultrasound examinations can be performed on most parts of the body and
give excellent information about a variety of conditions including pregnancy,
gall stones and varicose veins. Ultrasound uses soundwaves which are bounced
back from inside parts of the body to produce black and white images.
These soundwaves are read through a handheld transducer.
An obstetric ultrasound provides valuable information
that will assist your doctor in monitoring your pregnancy.
You will be provided with a picture of your baby's ultrasound.
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