What does a radiologist do?

Types

There are several different specialties of radiology, including:

Diagnostic radiologist use medical imaging to diagnose and treat diseases. They can use a variety of different imaging methods, such as:

• X-rays

• CT scans

• MRI

• Ultrasound

• Mammography

Using these imaging methods, diagnostic radiologists are able to detect and diagnose a wide variety of diseases. In addition, they can also use these methods to treat diseases.

Interventional radiologists

Interventional radiologists use medical imaging to provide therapy, such as keyhole surgery, to people with noncancerous conditions. This imaging can make surgical procedures safer and lead to faster recovery times.

Radiation oncologist

A radiation oncologist uses radiation-based therapy to treat cancer. This therapy involves the use of high energy radiation to damage cancer cells and prevent them from spreading. It can help reduce symptoms or, in some cases, cure the condition entirely.

Medical physics

Medical physicists apply their knowledge of physics to help advance the field of medicine. This can take many forms, such as providing guidance on medical imaging and ensuring patient safety, or conducting research to develop new medical technologies. Many common devices and pieces of equipment used by doctors today were developed by medical physicists, such as MRI machines.

Radiologists can work in a variety of settings, including clinical practices, hospitals, and universities. Their job responsibilities vary depending on their specialty. All radiologists use medical imaging methods, such as:

• Computed tomography (CT) scans

• MRI scans

• Positron emission tomography (PET) scans

• X-rays

• Ultrasounds

• Nuclear medicine

• Fusion imaging

Radiologists use techniques that mostly involve radiation in order to get images of the inside of the body. They are highly trained to make sure that the patient is safe from the harmful effects that radiation can have. Radiologists can help other doctors decide which imaging method to use and help them understand what the results from the imaging will mean for the treatment plan. They can also help to interpret different images and other test results in order to make a diagnosis or to monitor whether current treatments are working. There are certain types of radiologists, such as interventional radiologists, who are more actively involved in the treatment process. Others, such as diagnostic radiologists, might provide support to other healthcare professionals. Some radiologists rarely work with patients and instead work in labs doing research. For example, some clinical studies might include a radiologist to help with the analysis of medical images.

References

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