What is Radiology and Why is it Important?

While most of us are familiar with X-rays or CT scans, not many are accustomed to the term “Radiology”. Radiology is a branch of medicine that uses diagnostic imaging technology to diagnose & and treat disease. In this blog, let us delve into types of radiology and its importance. 

What is Radiology?

Radiology is a diagnostic imaging discipline where a series of tests are done to diagnose ailments in patients. A radiologist will look at the reports of specific imaging tests to find a relevant image that evaluates and supports a diagnosis. 

Types of Radiology

There are three types of radiology: diagnostic, interventional, and radiation therapy.

  • Diagnostic Radiology - It is a fundamental branch of radiology that helps doctors diagnose and treat illnesses. The different imaging techniques used are:

  • CT scan

  • MRI

  • Mammography

  • X-Rays

  • Ultrasound


Interventional Radiology

Interventional radiology hospital uses image-guided surgery to detect illnesses in patients. This a complicated technique implemented for non-cancerous patients. Here, the above-mentioned imaging options are used to guide in surgery for minimally invasive procedures.


The primary advantages of this type of radiology are:

  • Safer

  • Faster recovery

  • Less expensive

  • More comfortable as minor cuts are made

Radiation Therapy

Also known as therapeutic radiation, it is used to treat cancer patients. Various radiology techniques are used to determine the area with damaged cells, and then radiation is used to prevent further proliferation. 

Uses of Radiology

Different types of radiology and imaging tests diagnose a broad range of conditions, including:

  • Radiographs: to assess bones, chest or abdomen

  • CT (Computed Tomography): produces numerous X-ray angles

  • MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): utilizes magnetic fields and radio waves

  • Mammograms: to inspect breast tissue

  • Ultrasounds: employs sound waves to produce moving images

  • Fluoroscopy: X-rays are used to create moving images

  • Nuclear medicine: momentarily radioactive substances that fluoresce during metabolic processes

Importance of Radiology

Here are some of the vital importance of radiology in healthcare:

Preventive Screening

Prevention is always better than cure. Similarly, radiology screenings make it easier to treat a condition when detected earlier.


Treatment

Radiology can also be used to treat cancer patients and to guide other surgical processes by imaging techniques.

Public Awareness

As the masses become more aware of the treatments available, many misconceptions are washed away, paving the way for improved healthcare. 


Research and Medicine

Radiology uses various imaging techniques, requiring detailed studies by doctors and researchers alike. Hence, radiology is a cornerstone of many new procedures and treatment methods.

Tracking Condition

Imaging technology is most commonly used to track a patient’s condition and evaluate the effectiveness of the choice of treatment. Radiology produces infallible results each time, which is crucial to stay ahead of the progression of a disease. This helps doctors gauge the treatment response and make decisions accordingly.

In other words, Radiology has helped humankind to revolutionize healthcare. It allows medical practitioners to get a visual representation of the repercussions of a disease, which helps them make informed decisions regarding treatment and therapy. Consult with our expert doctors and book an appointment with Ponjesly Hospital, the best radiology hospital in Nagercoil. 

Location: Nagercoil, Tamil Nadu, India

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