Diagnostic Imaging

For thousands of years, there was no way for doctors to see inside a patient's body, short of cutting the patient open, if there was a problem. That changed with the advent of x-rays. (Read about "X-rays") Since then, the number of ways to look inside our bodies has mushroomed. Some of the techniques use x-rays combined with a computer to get a three-dimensional look inside. Other use ultrasound waves or magnetic waves to get a look. Sometimes injections, such as contrasting materials, are used to enhance the details.

Different types of imaging techniques are used to diagnose different conditions. There isn't an organ of your body now out of reach of imaging technology. Diagnostic imaging techniques give your doctor information about what is happening inside your body and makes for a better diagnosis and treatment.

Use the links below to learn about specific type of imaging.