Ultrasound Essentials

Overview

Ultrasound uses high frequency sound waves to visualize soft tissues in real time. It is portable and safe for repeated use. It is widely used at the bedside.

Clinical Applications

Ultrasound is used in obstetrics cardiology and abdominal imaging. It evaluates fetal growth cardiac function and organ structure. It guides procedures and biopsies.

Doppler Imaging

Doppler assesses blood flow and vascular patency. It helps diagnose stenosis and thrombosis. It is integral to vascular studies.

Point of Care

Portable ultrasound enables bedside diagnostic imaging. It shortens time to diagnosis in acute settings. It supports rapid clinical decision making.

PET Imaging

Overview

Positron emission tomography uses radiotracers to image metabolic activity. It provides functional information about tissues. It is often combined with CT or MRI for localization.

Clinical Applications

PET is used in oncology neurology and cardiology. It detects metabolic activity of tumors and brain disorders. It guides therapy selection and response assessment.

Radiotracers

Common tracers include FDG and others for specific targets. Tracer selection depends on clinical question. Radiochemistry advances expand tracer availability.

Hybrid Imaging

PET CT and PET MRI combine functional and anatomic data. These hybrids improve diagnostic accuracy and staging. They are valuable in complex cases.