The field of radiology and medical imaging is an important tool used by many doctors to aid in the diagnosis of countless health conditions. The most familiar type of radiology imaging test or scan is an X-ray. Most of us have had some type of X-ray at some point in our lives, whether it is at the dentist or doctor or emergency room, so we are very familiar with them.
But there are other important and helpful radiologic imaging modalities, such as nuclear medicine and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), that may not be as common or familiar to us. Here is a closer look at two diagnostic methods our board-certified radiologists in Palm Beach County frequently use.
Both MRI and nuclear medicine use a form of radiation to acquire an image of, or the function of, an area of concern for determining a diagnosis. One difference however, is how the radiation is used and how the scans are performed.
MRI uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to produce high-quality, detailed images of internal body structures. This is a form of non-ionizing radiation. Nuclear medicine uses an ionizing radioactive tracer, usually injected into the blood, to produce images that show function of internal organs.
MRI imaging is accomplished by placing the patient within the magnetic field and using specially designed coils that transmit radiofrequency waves into the patient’s body. From the images produced, doctors can look for abnormalities in the bones and joints, heart, and blood vessels to determine damage after a heart attack. Degenerative disc disease, spinal cord injuries, and multiple sclerosis are some of the more common health conditions diagnosed with an MRI.
Nuclear medicine imaging is accomplished using specially designed radiopharmaceuticals that are swallowed or injected into the patient and emit gamma ray radiation. The radiopharmaceutical is specific to the area of concern such as the bones, liver, thyroid, heart, or gallbladder. The specially designed gamma camera detects the gamma rays and creates an image of the function of the organ. Nuclear medicine is used to determine blood flow inside the heart, gallbladder function, thyroid function, and abnormalities in the bones due to metastatic cancer lesions or infection.
Here at Independent Imaging, we use state-of-the-art equipment and advanced technology including an open, high-field MRI and nuclear medicine including PET/CT scans. Our fellowship-trained physicians and certified radiologic technicians are dedicated to confidently and quickly perform your test to help get you a quick, accurate diagnosis. We tailor our schedule to meet the demands of both busy patients and referring physicians, with extended hours six days a week.
For more information about nuclear medicine or MRI imaging, or to schedule a diagnostic test, please call one of our four convenient Palm Beach-area locations at (561) 795-5558, or submit an appointment request online.
