Neuroradiology

A subspecialty of radiology that focuses on the imaging and diagnosis of diseases of the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves.

 

MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging):

A non-invasive imaging technique that uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the internal structures of the body, particularly useful in neuroradiology for visualizing the brain and spinal cord.

 

CT (Computed Tomography):

An imaging technique that uses X-rays and computer processing to create cross-sectional images of the body, widely used in neuroradiology for detecting abnormalities in the brain and skull.

 

Cerebral Angiography:

A diagnostic procedure that involves injecting a contrast dye into blood vessels to visualize the blood flow in the brain and detect abnormalities such as aneurysms or vascular malformations.

 

Myelography:

A procedure where a contrast dye is injected into the spinal canal, followed by X-rays or CT scans to visualize the spinal cord and nerve roots, commonly used in neuroradiology.

 

Functional MRI (fMRI):

An imaging technique that measures and maps brain activity by detecting changes in blood flow, providing insights into brain function and localization of specific activities.

 

Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI):

An advanced MRI technique that maps the pathways of nerve fibers in the brain, valuable for studying connectivity and integrity of neural networks.

 

Perfusion Imaging:

Imaging techniques, often using contrast agents, to assess blood flow in the brain, critical for diagnosing conditions like stroke and brain tumors.

 

SPECT (Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography):

A nuclear medicine imaging technique that uses gamma rays to create three-dimensional images of blood flow and metabolic activity in the brain.

 

PET (Positron Emission Tomography):

A nuclear medicine imaging technique that provides information about metabolic activity in tissues, commonly used in neuroradiology for cancer detection and brain function assessment.

MRA (Magnetic Resonance Angiography):

An MRI technique specifically designed to visualize blood vessels, helping to diagnose conditions such as aneurysms and stenosis.

Radiopaque Contrast Agents:

Substances, often containing iodine or barium, injected or ingested to enhance visibility of structures during imaging procedures like CT scans and angiography.