Medical Radiation Techniques: A Brief Insight

Medical imaging technology is an ever expanding field. It came into picture with X-rays, followed by Ultrasonography, which took many years to evolve as a sophisticated modality. Since then, three-dimensional imaging of deep seated anatomical structures was made probable with the conception CT and MRI scans. The most recent and highly advanced breakthrough in medical imaging technology, such as FMRI, PET, and SPECT scanning, generate images of body function rather than anatomy.

A brief description of various technologies is given below:

• Digital X-rays: Digital X-rays fabricate clear images with a comprehensive assessment. Even the re-exposures are not considered essential. The X-Ray finds a way through the patient's body and the digital camera captures the consequential image. The images are stored for retrieval and final processing. Through our digital X-Ray system, even the very fine details of the body can be enhanced and the minutest of lesions can be examined.

• Ultrasound: Ultrasound imaging uses frequencies from 2 to 18 MHz Ultrasonography has many significant diagnostic applications, the best-known of which are obstetric ultrasounds and echocardiograms. Further, Doppler sonography and a couple of non invasive procedures are also undertaken using this technology. Sonographic assessments for In Vitro Fertilization procedures, surgical and gynecological practices & portable bedside Ultrasonography are also very popular.

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): MRI is a relatively novel skill to hit the medical world, and has totally transformed the medical imaging and the diagnostic processes. In-vivo images can be taken of the human body, signifying that internal images can be seen without making any incisions. Entirely non-intrusive procedures are used which makes MRI's very effective.

• Positron Emission Tomography (PET): Like MRI, PET images characterize biological processes occurring inside the body. Here, a tracer is injected into the body. The tracer is a molecule used in metabolism which has an embedded radioactive isotope with a short half-life that decays by emitting positrons. Clinically, PET imaging is used in oncology and for detecting certain brain disorders. PET scans are usually used in conjunction with CT or MRI scans in a single medical imaging unit that can show both anatomy and biological function.

Miscellaneous: Medical imaging technology is a field of rapidly emerging developments. Newer modalities comprise of optical imaging, making use of low-frequency light (infrared and even radio waves), and photo acoustic imaging, which takes advantage of the fact that under certain circumstances, matter can emit a sound upon the absorption of light. This field promises remarkable new possibilities for both anatomical and functional imaging.

A lot of universities all across the globe offer hands on training in the above stated modalities, but one such academy, Wellwishers Academy offers unparallel training. The academy (from the house of Marvel Group), prepares a trainee with an integrated clinical experience from the beginning of the program. The trainees work within an inter-professional health care team to become competent enough in providing safe patient assessment, and acquire the diagnostic and therapeutic dexterity consistent with best practice standards for medical radiation technology.