One of the new imaging innovations today includes the use of PET/CT in making images. PET, which stands for positron emission tomography, is combined with computed tomography (CT) to provide physicians with information about a patient’s functional and anatomical health. In order to produce the images, simple sugars are tagged with radioactive tracers and injected into a patient. Scanning equipment records the signals emitted by the tracers. In turn, data is collected about inflamed and diseased tissues.
- Diagnosing Alzheimer’s Disease
After this data is collected, a computer is used to translate the signals into images. The images show sites where tissues are inflamed or diseased as well as tissues and organs that are functioning normally. This type of scan and imaging is also used to diagnose Alzheimer’s disease. Therefore, this additional imaging technique is another featured service in the field of radiation therapy in Riverhead, NY.
In addition to PET/CT scan imaging, providers of radiologic services also feature the following service offerings:
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) imaging
- Mammography
- X-ray
- Nuclear medicine
- General diagnostics
- Interventional radiology
Interventional Radiology
A number of radiation therapy services are offered under the category of interventional radiology. This form of imaging is also known as IR, and is a subspecialty in the radiology field. Minimally invasive image-directed processes are employed to diagnose and treat conditions in most organ systems, including the vascular system. When used for vascular diagnoses and treatment, the process is known as vascular interventional radiology, or VIR.
As you can see, radiation therapy is used in a variety of service areas. Because of advanced imaging techniques, illnesses can be more easily diagnosed, and treatment plans implemented can be more easily tracked. Procedures that can be performed using IR methods include biopsies, angioplasty, joint arthrography, abscess drainage, and paracentesis.
Where to Obtain More Information
If you want to learn more about radiation services, contact North Fork Radiology to find out how radiology can be used to treat and diagnose conditions with greater ease. You can also visit them on Facebook.