Imaging Tests

Imaging allows your healthcare team to look at various parts of the body to detect diseases and conditions early when treatment can be most successful, or to help diagnose symptoms that you may be experiencing in a part of the body.

A number of different machines and techniques can be used, all creating a “snapshot” of the internal parts of the body. The type of imaging machine or technique used is dependent on the symptoms you are experiencing and the part of the body being examined as well as the type of image needed for an accurate screening or diagnosis by your healthcare provider.

Common imaging tests and procedures include: 

• Computed Tomography (CT): Cross sectional and 3D images of an organ or area of the body is generated, including skeletal detail. 
• Interventional Radiology: Various imaging techniques (such as X-ray, CT scans, MRI scans and ultrasound) are used to guide the placement of needles, catheters, drains and stents inside the patient to diagnose or treat various conditions.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): High-strength magnetic fields create computer-processed cross sectional and 3D images of the body. This type of diagnostic imaging is very effective at creating images of soft tissues and organs, especially the brain and spinal cord.
• Nuclear Medicine: A low dose radiation isotope is ingested and then a gamma camera is used to detect metabolic and biological functions within the body. Nuclear medicine also includes Positron Emission Tomography (PET), which is often used for cancer diagnosis, staging and monitoring.
• Radiography: This includes X-rays, bone densitometry (DEXA, a technique that measures bone density), and mammography (a technique for examining the breast).
• Ultrasound: High-energy sound waves generate cross sectional and 3D images of soft tissue. Doppler ultrasound can depict a patient’s blood flow and any abnormalities associated with the blood vessels.

Diagnostic vs. Screening Imaging

Imaging tests can fall into two categories: diagnostic and screening.

• Diagnostic imaging tests are often requested to take a closer look at a part(s) of the body to help identify a cause for a patient’s symptoms or if something abnormal is discovered.
• Preventive screenings use the same imaging types as a diagnostic test, but they are done preventively, meaning without any specific symptoms or abnormality concerns. They are used to help detect disease at earlier stages, before it causes symptoms. Early detection improves patient outcomes and if diagnosed, generally provides more options for treatment of the condition.
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