Radiology and Its Subspecialties

Radiologist - Who he is?
A radiologist is a doctor who holds expertise in carrying out the imaging process as well as in acquiring and studying medical images produced by x-rays, be it using CT, fluoroscopy or radiograph. The images may even be produced using some other means such as radioactive substances or sound waves i.e. ultrasound.
Patients may be tested by any physician who would acquire the medical history of the patient, detect their illness, and prescribe medicine or required treatment. Statistics released by American Medical Association say that around 1.2% of these physicians are experts in radiology. Radiologists usually compare the results of medical imaging with varied other medical examinations. Thereafter, they suggest any further tests, if needed. Later, they consult with physicians who referred the patients to them.
At times, the radiologists may even treat the patient either using radiation oncology i.e. radiation or interventional radiology i.e. least invasive, image-guided operation.
What subspecialties do Diagnostic Radiologists specialize in?
Detailed clinical work along with thorough research may help a radiologist become an expert in various subspecialties of radiology, which may include:

• Breast imaging

This subspecialty of radiology focuses on diagnosis of breast-related diseases like breast cancer, and thus involves breast imaging. Varied kinds of procedures are involved with this field, such as breast ultrasound, mammography, and breast biopsy.

• Cardiovascular Radiology

This radiology field focuses on heart and blood vessel imaging to detect any kind of heart-related disease, be it in veins, arteries or lymphatics. The procedures involved here are MRI, CT (computed tomography), and x-rays.

• Chest Radiology

Chest imaging is focused on by the chest radiology field. Diseases of heart and lungs are often detected using this technique. Different procedures used in this area are CT (computed tomography), MRI and x-rays.

• Emergency Radiology

When trauma or moderate emergency conditions are to be diagnosed, emergency radiology plays a vital part. CT, x-rays and ultrasound are used for the same.

• Gastrointestinal (GI) Radiology

Imaging of any illness related to the gastrointestinal (GI) or digestive tract is involved in this area. Ultrasound, x-rays, fluoroscopy, and GI procedures help detect the same.

• Genitourinary Radiology

Reproductive organs or urinary tract problems are imaged under this subspecialty dubbed Genitourinary Radiology, which involves procedures like CT, MRI, kidney stone removal, uterine fibroid removal and biopsy.

• Head and Neck Radiology

Any injury or illness related to head or neck is detected in this subspecialty using MRI, ultrasound or CT.

• Neuroradiology

Brain and nerves as well as spine, head and neck are diagnosed for any disease in neuroradiology.

• Pediatric Radiology

Any child-related illness is diagnosed under this subspecialty of radiology using procedures like MRI, CT and x-rays, and others such as drainage of fluid and biopsy.

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