An x-ray taken by a radiology specialist.
A radiology specialist is a medical professional who uses his or her knowledge of radioactive substances and treatments to evaluate, diagnose, and treat many diseases and medical conditions, such as cancerous tumors, broken bones, and brain abnormalities. These medical specialists often perform ultrasound, x-ray, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) procedures using a wide range of specialized equipment. Specialists also often supervise radiology technicians in the operation of diagnostic and treatment equipment.
dental x-ray.
The most common radioactive medical procedures are X-rays and CT scans. The specialist and other doctors and medical professionals use these radioactive machines and their images along with other diagnostic tools to examine organs and internal body parts for growths and other abnormalities. He regularly injects radiopaque substances into patients or administers the substances orally or through enemas so that he can clearly see internal organs and structures.
A radiology specialist examines a patient’s chest x-ray.
After diagnosis, the radiology specialist may administer treatments with radioactive materials. Commonly treated abnormalities include malignant external and internal growths and tumors. These are usually treated by exposure to external sources of radiation or by implanting similar substances in the area of the body that contains the tumor. Radiology specialists often share updates on the results of these treatments with doctors.
A radiology specialist can perform MRIs.
In addition to X-rays and CT scans, a radiology specialist regularly assists with fluoroscopy procedures of the digestive system. He can also perform soft tissue radiographic exams and bone studies. His other responsibilities may include periodic radiographic, prenatal, and pediatric examinations of the nervous, respiratory, and vascular systems. Locating foreign bodies and performing radiography procedures on sections of the body are also common tasks for a radiology specialist.
Radiology specialists often perform computerized axial tomography (CAT) scans.
A radiology specialist uses stationary and portable equipment in his work, as it is often more practical to move the equipment than the patient. He makes sure that patients are not exposed to unnecessary doses of radiation. The specialist is usually expected to repeat procedures that produce unclear images. Generally, he must also keep the equipment he uses in good condition through regularly scheduled maintenance.
Some radiology specialists focus on the teeth and jaws.
In addition to performing tests and interacting with patients, a radiology specialist traditionally keeps daily logs of activities. You are also normally required to maintain patient records, including radiographic files. Ensuring that physicians and team members have radiographic reports in a timely manner is a frequent job requirement for a radiology specialist.
Radiology specialists usually work in hospitals. Others are commonly used in clinics or doctors’ offices. A significant number of radiology specialists work in mobile units that provide services in communities that do not have comprehensive medical facilities. Depending on the region or country, education requirements vary. Most areas require prospective radiologists to complete a certification program; others may require associate’s or bachelor’s degrees. Some regions also require a specific radiation safety license.