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The 5 Most Common Medical Imaging Techniques

Medical imaging is one of the most useful tools of modern medicine, used for diagnosis and subsequent treatment of various conditions. Several tools are commonly used to identify various issues and conditions with amazing accuracy. These methods allow clinicians to see what’s happening inside the body and what may not be evident on the surface.

Houston Physicians’ Hospital, our specialty hospital in Webster, TX, offers a wide range of medical imaging services, including the following:

1. X-rays

X-rays are probably the most common type of medical imaging technique there is. They’re often the most preliminary diagnostic tool used for various injuries, illnesses, and conditions, being used to detect everything from fractures to disease progression and treatment efficacy. It’s a versatile and highly effective tool.

2. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

MRIs are another common type of imaging technique and are most commonly used to get a complete, cross-sectional image of the body’s soft tissues and bones using magnetic rays and photographic technology. It’s a powerful tool but one that is often complex.

X-ray image of a person’s hands.

3. Computed tomography (CT) scans

CT scans are also cross-sectional images that show more bodily insight and help identify issues. Often, CT scans are a follow-up to X-rays that show odd findings. They provide a detailed view of various organs, including size, shape, dimensions, abnormalities, and growths.

4. Ultrasounds

Ultrasounds are another very common imaging technique, using high-frequency soundwaves to get a closer look at soft tissues such as your organs. Since they’re generally safer than X-rays and CT scans and don’t require radiation, they’re used for pregnant women, too.

 

Houston Physicians’ Hospital is a surgical specialty hospital in Webster, TX, that provides various services through our imaging program. You can learn more about the different types of imaging on our website. Visit our website to find a doctor who’s right for you.