When you think of radiology, you may not think of diagnostic testing. However, a wide range of advanced and evidence-based diagnostic imaging techniques use radiology to their advantage. Radiology testing can determine several issues, including broken bones, aneurysms, and serious diseases like cancer.
Let’s talk about the most common diagnostic radiology tests, how they work, when you may need them to diagnose your underlying condition, and where you can go for the best radiology test results in Glendale, NY.
X-ray
When you think of radiology tests, you may immediately think of an X-ray. An X-ray is a diagnostic imaging technique that creates detailed images of the bones within the body. X-rays achieve this using X-ray beams, which pass through the body and are absorbed differently depending on the density and mass of the materials in the body. This is why bones and other solid materials like screws and plates turn up white on an X-ray image. X-rays are most popularly used to detect broken bones but can also be used to monitor degenerative diseases or cancer.
Your specialist may recommend you receive an X-ray for the following:
- Detecting arthritis
- Detecting broken and fractured bones
- Monitoring bone cancer
- Monitoring osteoporosis
- Viewing swallowed objects
CT Scan
A CT scan, formally known as a computerized tomography scan, is an advanced diagnostic imaging technique that allows your provider to get a cross-section view of the bones, blood vessels, and soft tissues within the body. Unlike an X-ray which views the bones, a CT scan is more commonly used to look at the organs and muscles within the body. CT scans are also commonly used to monitor certain conditions, including heart disease and cancer.
Your specialist may recommend you receive a CT scan for the following:
- Detecting a tumor or blood clot
- Detecting internal injuries
- Diagnosing muscle or bone disorders
- Monitoring diseases
- Monitoring treatments for disease
MRI
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans use magnetic fields and computer-generated radio waves to provide your doctor with detailed images of the organs and soft tissues in the body. MRI scans are similar to CT scans in that they create cross-section images of the body’s internal organs and muscles.However, an MRI does not use X-ray imaging like a CT scan.
Your specialist may recommend you receive an MRI scan to detect:
- Aneurysms
- Multiple sclerosis
- Spinal cord disorders
- Stroke
- Tumors
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
Ultrasound
Ultrasound, also called sonography, is a diagnostic imaging technique that uses a series of sound waves to produce visible images of the treated area. Patients often think of ultrasounds when they think of pregnancies and gynecology; however, ultrasounds are also commonly used to detect problems affecting many areas. Ultrasounds are non-invasive and painless, allowing our providers to view the treated area without any discomfort or recovery period.
Your specialist may recommend you receive an ultrasound for the following:
- Monitor pregnancy
- Diagnose gallbladder disease
- Examine a lump in the breast
- Determine genital problems in men
- Evaluate joint inflammation
- Check thyroid gland
Diagnostic Imaging in Glendale, NY
If you’re experiencing a host of symptoms and are unsure what’s causing them, it may be a good idea to see the board-certified doctors at EMU Health for a diagnostic radiology test. We are proud to offer these advanced imaging techniques to men and women in Glendale and the neighboring communities in New York.
In addition to radiology services, our state-of-the-art facility is home to a wide range of specialty fields, including urology, orthopedics, and general surgery.
If you have any questions about our services or the symptoms you’ve been experiencing, call us today at (718) 850-4368. To schedule a consultation with one of our skilled doctors, feel free to use our convenient online appointment request form.
