[MSIT] the fact that X-rays are not used in MRI make it much safer for the patients as the radiation hazard is not there. Also, MRI provides greater contrast between the different tissues in comparison to a CT scanner offering more detailed anatomical review, better diagnostics, and improved interventional radiology. By adjusting the contrast mechanisms and other imaging parameters, the MRI allows the radiologist to obtain a highly detailed image of a particular region of study. Particularly, the MRI is highly effective as a diagnostic tool for studying the anatomy and abnormalities in the brain, spinal column and other vital regions enabling the easy identification of pathological tissues. The availability of super magnetic contrasting agents has further improved the visualization and the quality of the images. [Joseph P. Hornak] Interventional Radiology

By the 1970's, new advancements and improvements in imaging techniques extended their application to interventional procedures in different clinical settings. Primary among these is vascular interventional radiology involving procedures such as angiography, angioplasty, chemoembolization, RF ablation (radio frequency ablation), Biopsy, etc. Today, these aforementioned interventional methods have greatly helped patients in the treatment of a wide range of cardiac conditions and cancer care. Guided procedures such as angioplasty are a quick, immediate and less invasive treatment for people suffering from blocks in heart valves. Catheterization procedure such as AV node ablation is one of the common methods for treating electrophysiological defects in the heart muscle. In cancer care, imaging guided biopsies are used to obtain tissue samples without affecting adjacent tissues. For example Transjugular liver biopsy is used to identify hepatic carcinoma without having to go through the Glisson's capsule. This procedure reduces the chances of liver bleeding. Using radiographic guidance Transcatheter chemoembolization, gene therapy and tumor ablation procedures are done effectively improving the quality of life for the patients. Similarly, image guided aspiration procedures are very effective alternatives for fluid draining under less invasive settings which would otherwise involve surgical raining. Currently Radio frequency ablation techniques are in vogue in the treatment of liver cancers and the...

[CHARLES E. RAY, JR., M.D]
Conclusion

Radiology has evolved a long way since the discovery of x-rays. Today radiology is not just limited as a diagnostics tool but interventional radiology is the forefront treatment for many serious diseases. While x-rays were a remarkable breakthrough in medicine, the development of CT scans and the subsequent MRI created a whole new dimension in medical diagnostics. MRI created a vastly different and safe diagnostic medium with the absence of the radiation hazard that CT scans and traditional x-rays had. Interventional-guided procedures such as Catheterization, ablation, angiography, angioplasty, chemoembolization have given a new ray of hope to millions of people suffering from cardiac problems and other debilitating conditions such as cancer. The applications of interventional radiology is ever expanding and the less invasive and non-surgical interventions have greatly reduced the need for surgeries and eliminated the complications associated with surgical procedures. With these new developments the role of the radiologist is also vastly changing. Today's radiologists are actively involved in caregiving and are not limited to diagnosis.

Bibliography

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Otto Glassner, 'Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen and the Early History of the Roentgen Rays', Norman Publishing, 1992, pg. 236.

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Peterborough and Stamford Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, 'Radiology a Brief history', Accessed 13th September 2008, available at http://www.rad-i-ology.co.uk/radsite/historical.htm

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Joseph P. Hornak, Ph.D., 'The Basics of MRI', Accessed 14th September 2008, available at http://www.cis.rit.edu/htbooks/mri/inside.htm