The Different Imaging Tests You Should Offer at Your Medical Facility

The Different Imaging Tests You Should Offer at Your Medical Facility

imaging tests

Experts predict that the US medical imaging market will reach $43 billion by 2027.

This comes as no surprise since there are so many different types of imaging tests to detect various ailments. Whether you run a large hospital or a small private practice, nothing can replace the ability to “look inside” a patient and see what’s happening in their body.

Keep reading as we review the four most common types of imaging to test for different conditions.

1. X-Ray

X-ray machines are among the most popular types of imaging tests. The procedure is quick and painless, providing an instant look at the inside structures of the body.

You might associate x-rays with broken bones, and this is certainly a common use for these imaging tests. However, x-rays can also detect tumors, lung infections, arthritis, and foreign objects lodged inside the body.

Depending on which area of the body is being checked, the patient may sit, stand, or lie down for the x-ray procedure. Each image only takes a few seconds to produce.

2. MRI

MRI is an acronym for “magnetic resonance imaging.” The machine uses radio waves and magnetic fields to create detailed images of organs, blood vessels, and other soft tissues. MRIs are often used to look for signs of tumors, stroke, spinal injuries, and tendon or joint problems.

The patient lies on a specialized table that gets inserted into a long “tube” filled with magnets. The MRI magnets create loud thumping or tapping noises as they use waves to create images.

Although the procedure is painless, patients usually need earplugs or earmuffs to muffle the sounds. Some also need something to help with anxiety if they feel claustrophobic. MRIs are usually the longest types of imaging tests, taking anywhere from 20 minutes to one hour.

3. Ultrasound

Ultrasound imaging (also called sonography) uses high-frequency sound waves to study organs, soft tissue, and other internal structures. It’s used to monitor pregnancy, detect breast lumps or gallbladder disease, and search for blood flow problems.

The patient may sit or lie down, depending on the area being scanned. The technician applies lubricant to the skin and moves a small device called a transducer across the skin. This painlessly produces images of what’s happening inside the body.

4. CT Scan

CT scans are very similar to MRIs. Patients lie on a table that gets inserted into a tube while it rotates and takes x-ray images. The main difference is that CT scans use ionizing radiation instead of magnetic waves.

Doctors order CT scans to search for injuries or infections or to guide biopsies. These scans can also help to detect heart disease, tumors, and cancer. The procedure is generally shorter than an MRI, taking only 10-15 minutes to complete.

Which Imaging Tests Do You Need?

With so many different types of imaging tests on the market, it can be difficult to know which ones you need. Since there are different imaging to test for different conditions, it really depends on your clinic’s specialties.

No matter what type of medical office you run, we have the equipment you need. From imaging tables to anesthesia machines to patient monitoring devices, we proudly supply medical facilities worldwide.

Click here to get in touch or learn more about our specialized products.

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