Radiology books
New methods for viewing diseased structures inside
the body improved diagnosis of disease beginning in the 1970s. A
gamma camera detects radioactive medication that attaches to certain
forms of cancer cells. Computed tomography (CT) scanners use X rays
to produce lifelike three-dimensional images of body structures.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners produce highly detailed
images without X rays. Positron emission tomography (PET) detects
very early warning signs of disease. Sonograms, or ultrasound, taken
with high-frequency sound waves diagnose disease and monitor the
progress of pregnancies. X rays and high-energy particles emitted
by linear accelerators also are used to treat cancer. Lithotripsy
uses high-frequency sound waves to destroy some kidney stones and
gallstones, conditions that once required surgery.
|