What is radiology?
Radiology is the study of images of the human body. A Radiologist is a physician who has become a specialist in Radiology – a doctor who has taken additional training in the interpretation of medical images. Although Radiology initially starts with X–ray images later it extends to Ultrasound, CT, MRI, Angiograms, Radio nuclide images studies etc. In general, “Radiology” refers to medical imaging techniques, employing advanced computers and other complex equipment, that allows doctors to see inside a patient’s body without bloodshed and pain. Although the word “Radiology” implies radiation, not all of the techniques actually use radiation. And although radiology is most commonly used for diagnosis, sometimes it’s used therapeutically.
Radiology is the use of radiation for different types of “imaging,” including X-rays. Imaging simply means creating an image of the inner configuration of a dense object, such as part of the human body, with the use of radiant energy. Radiology is also sometimes called radioscopy or Clinical Radiology, the latter due to the many uses of imaging techniques for diagnosis as well as treatment of injury or disease. Imaging includes X-rays, radiant dye, ultrasound, CT scan and MRI, or magnetic resonance imaging. In the medical field, radiology is a specialization. A radiologist reads or interprets an image to pinpoint an injury, determine how serious the injury is or help detect abnormalities such as tumors. This is why patients frequently have to wait for the “official” results of an X-ray or other image even if the primary caregiver has reviewed it. A specialist in radiology must also interpret the results and consult with the physician or offer a report of his or her findings in order to
In November 2005, George S. Bisset III, MD, and the Department of Radiology at Duke University Medical Center hosted a day-long tour for 100 high school juniors and seniors from around the Triangle. As part of their participation, students were encouraged to submit an essay regarding their experience and newfound understanding of the radiologic field. In response to the essay topic of “radiology’s significance in the community,” we are pleased to announce that Lianne Gonsalves, a student at Cary Academy, is the winner of the contest and $1,000 prize. Rinchen Lama, a student at Leesville Road High School, is the first runner-up and recipient of $500. Click the student’s name to read the essay. Lianne Gonsalves, Cary Academy (Winner) Rinchen Lama, Leesville Road High School (First Runner-up) A photo of Ms. Gonsalves Pictured from left to right: George S. Bisset III, MD, Lianne Gonsalves of Cary Academy, and Carl E.
Radiology is the study of images of the human body. A Radiologist is a physician who has become a specialist in Radiology – a medical doctor who has taken additional training in the interpretation of medical images. This training usually takes 5–6 years after completing Medical School. Although Radiology began with the use of X–Rays and photographic films, the modern Radiologist now has a variety of tools for “Taking pictures” of living patients. Many of these newer tools do not use any X–Rays, nor radiation of any kind – such as MR and Ultrasound.
