What is radiology?
Radiology (also known as 'diagnostic imaging') is the branch of medicine that uses non-invasive technology to create images of the bones, tissues and organs within the human body. These images are interpreted by a radiologist or nuclear medicine physician to identify or monitor diseases or injuries. The findings are then included in a written report to the referring doctor.
Radiology technologies include X-rays, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasounds, nuclear medicine, positron emission tomography (PET) and more. Imaging methods are also used to help radiologists perform procedures, such as biopsies, fine needle aspirations and image-guided treatments known as interventional radiology.
Radiology is central to the practice of modern medicine. It is used for the diagnosis of many serious and life-threatening conditions, including cancer, neurological disorders and orthopaedic soft tissue injuries. The information contained in the image and radiologist’s report expands the referring doctor’s knowledge of the disease process and guides the treatment of the patient.