In the field of medicine, Digital Imaging Systems involves the creation of visual images of organs, tissues, and other body structures for the purpose of medical diagnosis. Digital imaging utilizes magnetic fields, gamma rays, high frequency sound waves, and x-rays, to create digital images of specific internal body structures and organs. The purpose is to diagnose disease in order to create an effective medical treatment plan.

The following is a list of the different types of Digital Imaging Systems:

X-rays: The use of x-rays is one of the most commonly used and widely known medical diagnostic systems. They are used to capture radiological images of structures within the body such as bones, stomach, liver…etc. X-rays are sent through the body to capture an image of a specific structure. The density of the structure allows the image to be captured. The film is developed and the radiologist will be able to view the structure such as fractured bone. They are able to differentiate an irregular structure such as a tumor from a normal structure.

Fluoroscopy: This x-ray imaging system allows for the creation of a moving image over a specific time period. It is a vital technique used to assess the movement of an organ such as the heart beat. It can help diagnose irregular heart beats. It is also used for assessing the gastrointestinal system. Patients will have a barium enema or swallow a barium mixture and this mixture will provide the contrast to show the specific organ such as the large intestine or stomach. The radiologist is able to view contraction and distension of the organ.

Ultrasound: This type of imaging is also known as sonography. Ultrasound makes use of high frequency sound waves. A device called a transducer is positioned on the skin over the area of the body part that will be imaged. The transducer emits sound waves that travel through the skin to the targeted organ or tissues. As the sound waves reach the specific structure, echoes are emitted. The transducer will pick up the echoes. The echoes are then transformed to an anatomical image that is displayed on a video screen. Ultrasound is used in monitoring a developing fetus, and also in assessing such structures as the kidney, gallbladder, and heart.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): This imaging system makes use of a high-power magnet, radio frequency signals, as well as a computer which is used to create images. It is used to diagnose spine and brain diseases as well as assess joints, abdomen, bone and soft tissue abnormalities, and the chest.

Computed Tomography (CT): The CT utilizes computer and x-ray technology to produce anatomical images. A two-dimensional anatomic image is created. There are also three-dimensional images that can be produced by using specific software. It is used for plastic surgery and orthopedic reconstruction.

Nuclear Medicine Imaging: This form of imaging uses radioactive compounds that produce gamma rays. The patient ingests a radionuclide. The chemicals collect for a short time in the parts of the body that are being imaged. A camera detects the gamma rays and uses the data to create an image of the body part. The image is placed on film known as a scintigram. It is most often used in bone and heart assessment.

The above list highlights a few of the different types of imaging systems used in medical diagnosis. Digital Imaging Systems have become an essential tool to diagnosing disease and abnormalities that result in treatment that saves lives.

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