Which imaging modality uses ionizing radiation, unlike ultrasound?

Prepare for the Sonography Entrance Exam. Study with quizzes and multiple choice questions, each featuring hints and thorough explanations. Excel on your test!

The correct answer is associated with imaging modalities that utilize ionizing radiation, which distinguishes them from ultrasound. X-rays and CT scans both employ ionizing radiation to create images of the internal structures of the body.

In X-ray imaging, a controlled amount of radiation is passed through the body, which is then captured on film or a digital detector, resulting in images that can show bones and certain conditions in soft tissues. Similarly, a CT scan (Computed Tomography) utilizes a rotating X-ray beam to produce a series of images from different angles, which a computer then processes to construct cross-sectional images or slices of the body.

Ultrasound, on the other hand, uses high-frequency sound waves to create images and does not involve any form of ionizing radiation, making it safer for use in various medical scenarios, including during pregnancy. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves instead of ionizing radiation to create detailed images of organs and tissues. An Electrocardiogram (ECG) is a test that records the electrical activity of the heart and does not involve imaging at all.

Thus, the distinction lies in the use of ionizing radiation, which is a key feature of X-rays and CT scans,

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy