Radiology

Computer Tomography

A Computer Tomography (CT) scan is a special type of x-ray carried out by a radiographer that takes pictures of cross sections or slices of organs and structures in the body. Each scan or slice when put together forms a 3-D picture of the body. A CT scan offers different views of different tissue types including liver, pancreas, bones soft tissue and blood vessels. CT scans are commonly performed on the head and abdomen and involve exposure to radiation in the form of x-rays however; this is kept to a minimum.

Magnetic Resonance

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to produce detailed images, which are usually 2-D, of the inside of the body. MRI scans can show organs, muscles, joints, blood vessels, nerves and other structures within the body and are commonly used to examine the brain, spine, abdomen and pelvis.

Ultrasound

An ultrasound scan uses high frequency wave sounds to create an image of an organ in the body. Ultrasound is very high frequency sound that cannot be heard by the human ear, but can be detected using a machine called an ultrasound scanner. It can be used to look at all soft tissue structures and blood vessels.

It cannot be used to look at bones or the lungs or gastro-intestinal tract in detail.

X-ray

X-ray is an imaging technique that is used to show up abnormalities in bones and certain body tissue, such as breast tissue. X-rays usually use low amounts of radiation, so the risk to your health is very small.