Body Imaging
The body imaging subspecialty focuses on the diagnosis of diseases and conditions within the chest, abdomen, and pelvis. Body imaging specialists consult with and participate in treatment planning with other types of physicians including primary care physicians, surgeons, gastroenterologists, and urologists.
Body Imaging May be Used to
- Evaluate internal organs including the liver, prostate, pancreas, bladder, kidneys, gallbladder, colon, uterus, and ovaries
- Diagnose or monitor treatment of tumors within the chest, abdomen or pelvis
- Assess traumatic injury to bones or organs
- Diagnose the cause of pain within the body
- Guide needles during biopsies, aspirations, or other minimally invasive procedures
Common Types of Body Imaging Exams
MRI
An MRI uses a magnet, radio waves, and a computer to produce detailed images of nearly any structure within the body. MRI exams do not use any radiation and are considered safe for people of all ages however, patients undergoing MRI need to remain still throughout the procedure, which may last up to 60 minutes.
CT Lung Screening
Lung cancer is the number one cancer killer in America, however, when it is diagnosed and treated early, survival rates can be greatly improved. CT lung screening is used to screen for lung cancer in patients who are considered high risk. A person is at high risk for developing lung cancer if he or she:
- Is 55-80 years old
- Is a current smoker or has quit within the past 15 years
- Has a 30 pack-year smoking history (or more)
Image-guided Biopsy or Aspiration
Medical imaging, like x-ray or ultrasound, is used to guide a needle to a precise location. For a biopsy procedure, the needle will gather a small tissue sample for further testing. During an aspiration procedure, the needle is used to drain fluid from an abscess or cyst.
Developed by the American College of Radiology (ACR) and the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA), RadiologyInfo.org provides more information about radiology tests, treatments and patient safety.
