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Spiral computerized tomography:
Computer tomography (CT), uses x-rays. A tube emitting x-rays rotates
around the patient. The x-ray film is replaced by digital sensors.
The information is processed by a computer which produces sections
views. The whole picture of the part of the body being examined
is then reconstructed from the series of sections.
The use of a contrast medium, iodine, generally well accepted by
the body, improves the quality of the examination.
The scanner, with its spiral action, has made significant progress
by allowing an uninterrupted rotation around the patient, as well
a continuously advancing examination bed. This means that numerous
section views can be taken in a very short space of time and this
information in turn allows multi-plane and 3D views to be taken
of the part of the body concerned. This technique enables extremeiy
precise exploratory examinations and requires smaller doses of contrast
medium.
This technique is also painless and enables the examination of all
of the body's organs. The scanner is greatly used in neuroradiology,
but also for diagnosing abdominal complaints and for carrying out
orthopaedic examinations.
- MRS:
The MRS or Magnetic Resonance Scanner is a technique involving a
magnetic field. The patient is placed in a tube made of a very strong
magnet, creating a magnetic field which allows the hydrogen nuclei
contained in the body's tissues, to be aligned in the same direction.
A radio wave is then emitted to stimulate the nuclei. When the emission
of this wave is stopped, the nuclei let off the energy. The energy
is picked up and analysed by a computer which puts together a very
precise picture of the part of the body being examined. The picture
varies according to the quantity of water contained in the tissues
being examined, their vascularization and possible abnormalities.
This technique is totally painless and without side-effects if the
right precautions are taken. It allows almost all parts of the body
to be examined and section views can be taken from all angles.
The injection of a contrast medium (gadolinium), generally well
accepted by the body, improves the quality of the examination.
A large number of medical disciplines now use MRS, of which the
field of application is ever increasing. It is used particularly
in the exploratory investigation of the central nervous system and
the spinal column and in the study of complaints, be they of the
bones and joints, genital, urinary, digestive or of the arteries.
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