To gain complete information about our health or to identify a problem, superficial examination is often not enough — doctors need to examine internal organs for accurate diagnosis. This is where radiology plays a crucial role.
Radiology is a branch of medicine that uses imaging techniques to diagnose and assess the internal structures of the body.
In modern medicine, radiological examinations are essential because they allow physicians to detect diseases early, evaluate their progression, and determine the appropriate treatment strategy.
Why Are Radiological Examinations Necessary?
Radiologists often play a key role in the diagnostic process, especially in cases where a disease is in its early stages and clinical signs are not yet clearly visible. Radiological imaging offers:
Early diagnosis – Detecting a disease in its initial stage significantly increases the chances of successful treatment.
Safe and minimally invasive assessment – In many cases, radiological methods eliminate the need for surgical or more invasive diagnostic procedures.
Monitoring the treatment process – Through these types of tests, doctors can evaluate how the body is responding to the prescribed therapy.
Types of Radiological Tests and Their Differences
One of the most common radiological procedures is the X-ray — an imaging technique that shows where damage may be located and how severe it is.
However, radiology includes many other methods, each using different technologies. For example, X-rays are mainly used to examine bones, lungs, and certain other organs.
A subcategory of X-rays, panoramic radiography, plays an important role in dentistry, as it provides a comprehensive image of the jaw, teeth, and oral structures, helping doctors make an accurate diagnosis.
Another widely used method is ultrasound scanning, also known as sonography. This technique uses high-frequency sound waves to visualize internal organs, soft tissues, and monitor pregnancy. Ultrasound is safe and does not use harmful radiation, making it a preferred first-line diagnostic tool.
Ultrasound is particularly important in endocrinology — especially for examining the thyroid gland. Through sonography, doctors can closely analyze the gland's structure, detect possible nodules or inflammatory processes. This fast and, most importantly, painless method enables specialists to promptly gather vital information and, if needed, plan further tests or initiate treatment.