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Radiography:
Besides the latest techniques in medical imaging, such as MRS, scanner,
ultrasonography and Doppler, Radiography remains of significant
interest in the diagnosis of numerous disorders.
The technique consists of allowing x-rays to act on radiographic
film. The film will be more or less darkened depending on the organs
through which the rays have passed . Latest advance, digitalisation,
offers an improved quality of picture and the possibility to process
the information by computer.
The use of radiopaque contrast dyes such as iodine or baryta allow
a more precise radiological examination. Iodine is used particularly
for x-rays of the kidney and the uterus and in arteriography. Baryta
is used to study the oesophagal passage, stomach, small intestin
for studying the colon (baryta enema).
This technique is absolutely painless and performed in the appropriate
conditions by qualified radiologists, the x-ray examination is totally
harmless.
- Ultrasonography:
Ultrasonography is a technique which sends a beam of ultrasound
waves of which the frequency (2,5 to 10 Mhz) depends on the depth
of the organ being examined. The degree to which the beam is reflected
varies according to the composition of the organs it meets.The resulting
signal is then processed by a computer which reproduces it as a
picture on a video screen.
This technique has the advantage of giving a rapid diagnosis without
preliminary preparation and in total safety. It allows all organs
to be examined, be they deep or close to the surface. The use of
the Doppler technique also allows the bloodflow to be monitored
in the arteries and veins, organs and tumours. Depending on its
intensity and direction, the bloodflow appears on the screen in
different colours.
In the case of a pelvic ultrasound scan, the patient must come with
a full bladder for a more precise reading of the bladder but also
of the uterus, the ovaries and the prostate. A probe covered with
a sterile protection can also be inserted into the rectum or vagina
to touch the area being examined, giving a better quality of picture.
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