Understanding Radiology
Your AllegiantMD Radiologist
Your AllegiantMD Radiologist is a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating disease and injury by using medical imaging techniques such as x-rays, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), positron emission tomography (PET), fusion imaging, and ultrasound. Because some of these imaging techniques involve the use of radiation, adequate training in and understanding of radiation safety and protection is important.
Radiologists are at the forefront of imaging technology, spearheading the development and implementation of CT, MRI, PET, and fusion imaging as well as minimally invasive procedures such as endovascular treatment of aneurysms and tumors, percutaneous biopsies, and pinpoint radiation therapy.
AllegiantMD Radiologists are board certified by the American Board of Radiology (for an MD) or the American Osteopathic Board of Radiology (for a DO). Board Certification is an indication of a high level of training and demonstrated excellence in the field.
Your AllegiantMD Radiologist Plays a Key Role in Your Health Care By:
- Acting as an expert consultant to your referring physician (the doctor who sent you to the radiology department for testing) by aiding him or her in choosing the proper examination, interpreting the resulting medical images, and in using test results in your care.
- Treating diseases by means of minimally invasive, image-guided surgery (interventional radiology).
- Correlating medical image findings with other examinations and tests.
- Recommending further appropriate examinations or treatments when necessary, and conferring with referring physicians.
- Directing radiology technologists (personnel who operate the equipment) in the proper performance of quality exams.