Modern diagnostics – the best imaging methods used abroad

magnetic resonance imaging (MRI),  

positron emission tomography (PET),  

computerized tomography (CT),  

optical tomography of the spine, 

ultrasonography,  

single photon emission computed tomography.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is one of the most sought-after methods of 3D body imaging. It allows you to use nuclear magnetic resonance to obtain three-dimensional detailed images of internal organs and body structures. 

MRI is most commonly prescribed to diagnose abnormalities of the brain, blood vessels, spine, abdominal organs, and thorax. It may be performed to detect diseases of individual organs, such as the intestines, heart, lungs, kidneys, liver, etc. 

Pros of MRI:

speed of diagnosis (15 to 60 minutes);

helps detect pathology at an early stage;  

high quality 3D images;  

available for diagnosing any organ;  

there are no risks of ionizing radiation;

when using an MRI contrast agent, the probability of allergic reaction to it is lower than to CT or X-ray with iodine-based contrast.

Cons of MRI:

noise,  

may cause fear of confined space during scanning,  

examination of the skeleton is ineffective (CT or X-ray is better for this purpose),

you cannot move during the procedure.  

Positron emission tomography (PET) is a nuclear diagnostic procedure that allows an accurate assessment of the biochemical and metabolic functions of the human body. This examination is often combined with CT or MRI, in which case it is referred to as PET-CT or PET-MRI. 

The technique is based on the detection of radioactive signals emitted by tissue after a small amount of radioactive indicator is injected intravenously into the patient’s bloodstream. It is most commonly used to detect diseases of the brain, heart or cancer. PET scans can also be used to check the entire body. 

Advantages of PET

better sensitivity than other imaging tests (CT, MRI),  

diagnostic accuracy,  

takes about 30 minutes,  

painlessness,  

wide area of application.  

Disadvantages of PET

radiation exposure,  

may give false results if the chemical balance in the body is not normal,  

cost.

Computed tomography (CT) is a diagnostic procedure that uses X-ray equipment and computers to create cross-sectional images of the body. It clearly shows the condition of internal organs, blood vessels, bones, and soft tissue. 

The examination is used to detect abnormalities of the cardiovascular system, disorders of the musculoskeletal system, lung diseases, oncology, problems of the urogenital system, dental diseases, etc. It can also be used to visualize the process during puncture or some surgical interventions.

CT diagnostics abroad are performed with the latest models of CT scanners. Unlike their predecessors, which made 32, 64, and 128 slices per resolution, the new generations of these machines can make 512 and 640 slices. They produce high-quality images without any distortions.

CT strengths:

Speed of procedure (5-15 minutes),  

Image quality,  

Fast results (30-50 minutes),  

Absence of long preparation for the procedure,  

Painlessness.  

Weaknesses of CT:

Ionizing radiation, 

Risks of allergic reaction to the contrast agent,  

Low natural contrast of soft tissues.

CT and MRI have a similar principles of operation. These two methods create three-dimensional images from multiple scans taken from different angles. But CT uses X-rays, and MRI uses electromagnetic waves. The first procedure is more informative for diagnosing bones, blood vessels, lungs, teeth, and heart, while the second is more informative for soft tissues and tumours.

A CT scan may be recommended instead of an MRI if the patient has a metal implant, pacemaker or another device that is contraindicated for an MRI. Unlike a simple x-ray, a CT scan offers a much higher level of detail in the areas being scanned, creating clear, computerized 360-degree images of body structures.

Ultrasound is a non-invasive way of diagnosing the body. It is one of the safest and simplest methods of obtaining layer-by-layer images of tissues and organs. It is used in various areas of medicine for patients of all ages. 

Ultrasound is an ideal way to assess the condition of the fetus, examine internal organs, perform a needle biopsy, or detect any vascular abnormalities. The examination is also called sonography. During it, a special sensor sends sound waves that pass through the patient’s body and cause an echo. This data is displayed on a computer screen. 

Modern ultrasound scanners have a high resolution, which allows you to get detailed information about the areas being examined. They are equipped with 3D and 4D technologies, which provide three-dimensional images in real-time and therefore clearer images. 

Advantages of ultrasound

Painless and safe (can be performed on pregnant women and newborns),  

Low cost,  

Affordability,  

Mobility (there are portable ultrasound machines that can be brought to the patient’s room to conduct the examination),  

Clear images of soft tissues,  

No radiation exposure.  

Disadvantages of ultrasound

A more superficial examination than, for example, an MRI or CT scan,  

Poor penetration of ultrasound waves through bone or air,  

The quality of the results depends on the equipment and the skills of the doctor,

May be insufficiently informative in people with significant obesity.

Computerized optical tomography is a worthy alternative to X-ray methods for diagnosing diseases and injuries of the spine and joints. It can easily detect scoliosis, kyphosis, lordosis, pelvic misalignment, and other pathologies. 

During the session, the patient stands or moves on a barometric platform while the optical camera feeds horizontal “light” strips into the back area. Thanks to the stereo effect, this creates 3D and 4D images of the spinal column. Therefore, the doctor can view the examined area from all angles in a three-dimensional image. After the procedure, the computer program processes the information and gives the result.

Strengths of optical tomography

high accuracy,  

no radiation exposure,  

painlessness,  

informativeness,  

the rapidity of the study (5-10 minutes),  

availability.  

Weaknesses of optical tomography

Limitation of the patient’s weight and height (not suitable for patients who are shorter than 90 cm or taller than 210 cm, or for people weighing more than 200 kg),  

May not be informative in patients with large back tattoos or skin that is too dark.  

Single-photon emission computed tomography is one of the most popular radionuclide diagnostic techniques. It is similar to PET. The procedure uses a radioactive substance that is injected intravenously and a special gamma camera to create 3D images.

SPECT is mainly prescribed for the diagnosis and monitoring of brain, heart, liver, bone, and breast pathologies. It is recommended for various neuropsychiatric disorders resulting from chemical imbalances in the brain (e.g., Alzheimer’s disease, depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, Parkinson’s disease).

Unlike other imaging tests, such as X-rays, which show what the structures inside the body look like, SPECT creates images of exactly how organs function.

For example, this method can see if blood flow to the heart is impaired, which areas of the person’s brain are more or less active, and how much and which bone tissues are affected by the malignant process.

Pros of SPECT

high sensitivity,  

ability to scan the entire body as well as individual body parts and organs, 

displays several biological processes,  

can be used in the presence of electronic devices implanted in the heart,  

cost.

Cons of SPECT

Long scanning time,  

low-resolution images,  

possibility of artefacts in tomograms,

does not provide a quantitative assessment of blood flow,  

has some radiation risk, although very low.