Advancement in Radiologic Technology That Should Be Taught in Classes

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Radiologic technology has represented many changes in the technological outburst that it is hard to describe the revolution. Problematically, there is an immense gap in education for those already in the field to become proficient in operating of new types of equipment and remaining on the cutting edge of their professional skills. The best facilities offering more advanced capabilities might be willing to cross train ambitious employees to different areas and help pass these advancements on with a little more ease.

For the tech who was trained before MRIs, CAT scans, and PET scans, these changes may be quite intimidating. This lack of knowledge also wrecks marketability for these individuals. Limits of this type will affect salary and self-confidence, especially for older employees who are not as savvy as the younger ones. Every new concept that is available should be poured out into the classroom for inspiration and accessibility to options for the students who are trying to choose a specialty.

Computed Tomography Angiography

Regular angiography was all that was available for quite some time. However, just a few years ago the computed tomography angiography came forth with many incredible advantages. In a CT angiography, the doctor just injects the contrast material into the arm and takes a CT scan. The arteries in the lungs, kidneys, brain and legs can then be examined. The whole process takes just 10 to 25 minutes. It’s safer, faster, and cheaper than the traditional way. This technique should be taught in the classroom, so the radiology tech can know and understand the rationale of which patients would receive this method as an alternative to the old method, along with the benefits.

PET Scans

Radioactive tracers given intravenously move throughout the body and settle in areas where disease is present. A PET scan (positron emission tomography) is an advanced system that can pinpoint with mapping these areas of concern in order to expedite diagnosis and treatment. Radiologic technology is certainly bolstered with incredible breakthroughs such as this. For the senior radiology technician, perhaps working in the emergency department or operating room, this particular technique may be totally foreign. It should be mentioned in even the most advanced radiology classes that these breakthroughs are always underway as well as classroom competency; individuals are responsible for continuing personal education in these areas.

Digital Mammography

Capabilities of digital images in medicine are off the charts. With digital imaging, doctors and other professionals can share information easier and faster than ever before. Digital mammography shows more detail than traditional mammograms. It works better especially in women who have denser breast tissue.

Classroom instruction for specialty techniques should definitely find its way to the student. For advanced radiologic technology to be most effective, all available methods should be discussed and integrated, so these specialty personnel can offer patients the best of confidence in their work and the way they implement this type of testing. Since radiologic technology advancement has reduced the surgery rates by a significant amount, priority in classroom instruction must be considered.