Not all injuries or illnesses can be seen using only your eyes; some require special imaging tests. These tests can be used to make a diagnosis, treat, and monitor certain conditions. This article explains the different kinds of tests and what they are used for.

The type of imaging most people are familiar with is X-ray imaging, or radiography. This type of imaging provides your care team with pictures of bones and other structures within the body. X-ray imaging can also be used to diagnose diseases such as arthritis and osteoporosis, digestive issues, breast cancer and infections. 

CT and MRI scans are also well-known imaging tests. CT scans use a series of X-rays to create cross-section images of the bones, blood vessels and soft tissues inside our bodies. For this test, patients lay on a table that slides into a scanner while the test is completed, which usually takes 10-15 minutes. The images from CT tests are used to diagnose things such as broken bones and other injuries, tumors, cardiovascular diseases, or to guide biopsies. 

MRI tests use magnetic energy pulses to produce much more detailed images of the body. MRI tests do not require radiation and are non-invasive. This type of imaging is helpful when diagnosing strokes, aneurysms, multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injuries, and soft tissue injuries in the joints. Washington Regional Medical Center houses two state-of-the-art wide bore MRI scanners which are designed to maximize the comfort of our patients. 

When undergoing either a CT or MRI, you may be given a special contrast dye before your scan. The purpose of contrast dye is to highlight the specific area of your body that is being looked at. If needed, the dye will be given to you through an IV, and you may be given a special solution to drink.

Ultrasound is another type of imaging test. This test uses sound waves to create images. Most people are familiar with ultrasound being used to monitor pregnancy, but it can also be used to look for gallbladder disease, reproductive issues and check for blood flow issues. During an ultrasound, a technologist will apply gel to the area being scanned and then glide a probe over your skin. 

Nuclear medicine is an imaging specialty that uses small amounts of radioactive material and a specialized camera to take pictures of the inside of the body and see how organs are functioning. Nuclear medicine test can be used to diagnose cancer, endocrine disorders, gastrointestinal issues, heart disease and neurological disorders.

Finally, interventional radiology, also called IR, uses real-time X-ray video, or fluoroscopy, CT or ultrasound to guide minimally invasive treatment procedures. It can be used while placing stents or gastrostomy tubes, biopsies, and catheter or port insertions for patients undergoing chemotherapy or hemodialysis. 

While these imaging tests may all be different, they all provide important information to help your care determine and carry out the best treatment plan for you.