Imaging Modalities

Overview

Imaging modalities allow clinicians to visualise internal structures and interpret anatomy in a clinical context. This section introduces the most widely used imaging techniques and explains how they generate anatomical information. Understanding these principles helps learners integrate radiological findings with anatomical knowledge.

Core Concepts

Topics include plain film X-ray, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Each article outlines the basic physics, strengths, limitations and typical uses of each modality, with examples highlighting how different techniques reveal specific anatomical features.

Clinical Relevance and Learning Focus

Familiarity with imaging modalities is essential for interpreting diagnostic studies, understanding pathology and planning treatment. This section supports learners in recognising normal anatomy, appreciating modality-specific detail and developing confidence in radiological interpretation.

+ Read more

Plain Film X-Ray

Contrast-enhanced axial CT scan showing an abdominal aortic aneurysm measuring approximately 48.5 by 38.3 mm.

Computed Tomography (CT) Scanning

MRI scan of the lumbar spine in sagittal plane showing severe disc herniation at the L4-L5 level.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Scanning

Popular

Illustration of the anterior thigh muscles, color-coded with a legend identifying psoas major, iliacus, rectus femoris, vastus medialis, vastus lateralis, sartorius, and pectineus.
Encyclopaedia

Vastus Lateralis

by Roxanne Salkeld

Diagram of the superior mesenteric artery and its branches, with emphasis on the position of the inferior pancreatoduodenal artery.
Arteries of the Abdomen

The Superior Mesenteric Artery

by Katherine Sanders and Natalia Munoz

Illustration of the anterior thigh muscles, color-coded with a legend identifying psoas major, iliacus, rectus femoris, vastus medialis, vastus lateralis, sartorius, and pectineus.
Encyclopaedia

Iliopsoas

by Roxanne Salkeld