RADIOLOGY

Radiological technologists and diagnostic medical sonographers operate and help maintain equipment used to obtain images of the body's internal structure and evaluate health conditions. Technologists also administer radiation therapy to specific body parts.

Most radiology departments in hospitals house several radiology medical areas. The diagnostic area contains X-ray equipment for chest, extremities, all bony body parts, as well as fluoroscopic exams. Mammography performs diagnostic examinations of the breast. Diagnostic medical sonographers use high-frequency sound waves to produce images of internal body structures.

Special procedures use specialized X-ray equipment to perform diagnostic examinations on the circulatory system. They also help radiologists with procedures to open clogged arteries. In the nuclear medicine area, gamma cameras locate radioactive materials introduced into the body to detect disease.

Technologists also perform examinations that evaluate the anatomy and physiology of the body. Computerized tomography scanners (CT) provide complete body scanning and produce sectional images of internal body structures. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) use radio waves, powerful magnets, and computers to create sectional images of internal body structures.

You can become certified or registered In radiologic technology after successful completion of an accredited two-year hospital based program, a two-year Associate degree, or a four-year Baccalaureate degree program. Additional training is required for specialty areas.