Radiology is the study of pictures of the human body. X-rays were the first way to view the inside of the body without making an incision. Now in modern times, there are many tools used in radiology to view the body. Radiology is the branch of medicine that uses radioactive substances, electromagnetic radiation, and sound waves to create images of the body, its organs, and structures for the purpose of diagnosis and treatment. Images can also show how effectively the body and its internal organs and structures are functioning.
The Department of Radiology provides comprehensive outpatient diagnostic services. Imaging techniques available include state-of-the-art bone densitometry (DXA) scans, computed tomography (CT) scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasound, mammography and diagnostic and fluoroscopic radiography (x-rays). The majority of these services are digitally acquired, meaning they are interpreted by specialty trained physicians using computer workstations with high resolution monitors. The workstations allow the interpreting physician the ability to manipulate the images and provide a better diagnosis by magnifying areas of interest, electronically measuring structures, and changing the density and contrast without repeating the exam.
The digitally acquired images and reports are electronically stored and can be viewed at any time by any physician with access to the Springfield Clinic’s network. Digital images can also be sent electronically to both hospitals in Springfield, if needed for comparison or treatment. They can also be burned to CD’s or printed to film. Reports are sent electronically to the patient’s electronic health record when exams are ordered by Springfield Clinic physicians. They are sent by mail to physicians who are not members of the Springfield Clinic, and a copy of the report is also stored electronically with the exam.
Radiology offers both diagnostic services in the following approaches.
- Diagnostic radiology (X-ray) uses external radiation to produce images of the body, its organs, and other internal structures for medical diagnostic purposes.
- Bone Densitometry (DXA Scan)
- Computed Tomography (CT / CAT Scan)
- Fluoroscopy
- Mammography
- Nuclear Medicine uses very small amounts of radioactive materials to create an image of the body, its organ functions, and structure, for diagnostic and treatment purposes.
- Radiography (X-ray)
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), which uses a powerful magnetic field, radio frequency pulses and a computer to produce detailed cross-sectional images of internal organs, soft tissues, musculoskeletal structures, the spinal canal, blood vessels, and virtually all other internal body structures. These images are reviewed on a computer to determine a diagnosis. MRI does not use radiation.
Ultrasound or Sonography uses high-frequency sound waves to produce pictures of the inside of the body. Since ultrasound images are captured in real-time, they can show the structure and movement of the body’s internal organs, as well as blood flowing through blood vessels. Ultrasound imaging is a medical test that helps physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions. The images are reviewed on a computer to determine a diagnosis. Ultrasound does not use radiation.