Clinical Use of Neuroradiological Imaging

Always consider, whether the possible benefit from the investigation is greater than the harm to the patient due to radiation exposure.Computed tomography (CT) is the easiest and most rapid method for identifying intracranial haemorrhages and for acute differential diagnosis between cerebral haemorrhage and infarction.Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the best method for the examination of the brain and the back. It is, however, slower than CT and not so easily available.As computed tomographic angiography (CTA) and magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) have become more common, the use of carotid and cerebral angiographies (DSA) has become restricted to special situations.Carotid ultrasonography is a non-invasive and easily available first-line procedure for detecting carotid artery stenoses and changes in the arterial walls. It is often used when investigating the aetiology of disturbances of the cerebral circulation.Plain x-rays of the spine do not rule out spinal canal processes.Myelography is no longer used routinely.