Neuroimaging

Describe various neuroimaging techniques and their relative advantages and disadvantages.

ANSWER

Neuroimaging Techniques

Computed Tomography (CT) Scan

Computed tomography refers to diagnostic imaging using computer technology and x-ray combination to produce the inside body images. Details of all the body parts, including blood vessels, organs, muscles, bones, and fat, are clearly shown. The images obtained from CT scans are more detailed than conventional X-rays making it easier to study organs and blood vessels. CT scans are accurate painless, and noninvasive. However, during CT scans, patients must hold breath which is not manageable by some patients. Brain CT scans can be affected by bones nearby, making them ineffective.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Anatomical three-dimensional detailed images of the body are done using a noninvasive imaging technology called Magnetic Resonance Imaging. Mainly MRI is used for diagnosis, treatment monitoring, and disease detection (Dadfar et al., 2019). MRI aligns body protons with a strong magnetic field that it produces, which helps physicians to differentiate various tissue types. Image of any part of the body can be taken using the MRI scanner regardless of the direction. Compared to CT scan MRI images, the difference between muscle, fat, and water is more detailed. Mostly MRI imaging is preferable in bones. However, MRI scans take longer and cannot be undertaken in emergencies.

Positron Emission Tomography Scan (PET)

Biochemical and metabolic functions of organs and tissues images are usually scanned using Positron Emission Topography. Radioactive drugs, commonly called tracers, are used during PET scans to indicate abnormal and Normal Metabolic activity (Lee, 2020). Diseases can often be detected before showing by detecting abnormal metabolism. PET scans are painless and increase a patient’s convenience, and comfort in it takes approximately 30 minutes. However, sometimes PET scans may take hours before the tracer accumulates significant areas.

References

Lee, J. S. (2020). A review of deep-learning-based approaches for attenuation correction in positron emission tomography. IEEE Transactions on Radiation and Plasma Medical Sciences, 5(2), 160-184.

Dadfar, S. M., Roemhild, K., Drude, N. I., von Stillfried, S., Knüchel, R., Kiessling, F., & Lammers, T. (2019). Iron oxide nanoparticles: Diagnostic, therapeutic, and theranostic applications. Advanced drug delivery reviews, 138, 302-325.