Functions of Non-Invasive
Imaging Technology (NIIT)
Non-invasive imaging technology has many functions that benefit patients, including the detection and staging of cancer, monitoring treatments, detecting early signs of Alzheimer's disease or dementia, and assessing pain.
- One of the most common uses for NIIT is in the detection and staging of cancer. By using computerized tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or ultrasound scanning technologies to scan patient tissues at various stages of development, doctors determine whether a tumor exists and how large it is. This information helps in making informed treatment decisions based on individual patient needs.
- NIIT also plays an important role in the monitoring phase after surgery by helping doctors track recovery rates as well as assess changes over time from different types of treatments.
- Additionally, image-guided radiation therapy is delivered more accurately when checked regularly against pre-treatment scans using NIIT technology.
- Lastly, NIIT is often used to detect early signs or indications that someone might have Alzheimer's disease or dementia due to its ability to spot subtle changes including plaques or tangles within brain tissue. In 2022, 6.5 million Americans 65 and older are expected to have Alzheimer's. 75 years of age or older make up 73%.
Which Non-Invasive Imaging Technology is Best?
One of the most cutting-edge, non-invasive, and comfortable imaging modalities, MRI is only limited by high prices, staff qualifications, and incompatibility with ferromagnetic materials. The medical imaging technology, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), generates detailed images of the body by utilizing powerful magnets and radio waves. MRI is used to detect conditions including tumors, cysts, strokes, brain injuries, and more. Most people undergo an MRI scan when they are scheduled for surgery to monitor their health over time. However, it also is used for non-medical purposes including detecting injury risk in athletes or monitoring pregnancy. Additionally, MRIs are becoming increasingly popular for treatments including weight loss surgery, regenerative medicine therapies, and targeted cancer therapy. MRI scans provide superior image quality due to the use of contrast agents and strong magnetic fields. This allows doctors to see details that aren’t visible with other imaging technologies including x-rays or ultrasounds. As per our analysis, in the United States, more than 34 MRI units were installed in the year 2020 for every 1 million people.
Non-Invasive Imaging Technology Types
There are many types of non-invasive imaging technology that are used to capture images of the body during medical procedures. Some examples include computerized tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and ultrasound.
- Computerized Tomography (CT) - Computerized tomography is a type of X-ray that uses computers to create three-dimensional images of organs and tissues in the body. This diagnostic imaging equipment is often used to identify and monitor conditions including cancer, heart disease, stroke, brain abnormalities, and childbirth. CT scans are also helpful in diagnosing injuries and determining the extent of damage caused by those illnesses. A CT scan was conducted for every 1,000 people in the US in 2019 at a rate of around 279 scans. CT scanners use very small doses of radiation rather than huge amounts including traditional X-rays so they are less damaging to the body. Additionally, since CT scans are performed multiple times on a single patient without any negative side effects (unlike conventional radiographs), they're often preferred over X-rays for imaging patients who require frequent surgery or monitoring throughout their treatment journey.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) - MRI is an image clarity alternative to CT that uses different radio frequencies and produces detailed pictures of structures inside the body, including bones, muscles, and blood vessels. MRI is a non-invasive technology that uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create detailed images of the body. This procedure is used to diagnose medical conditions, assess injuries, and detect abnormalities in the brain and spine. In 2021, the market for magnetic resonance imaging was estimated to be worth USD 4.8 billion. MRI is often considered one of the most accurate imaging technologies available today, as it produces pictures that are easily understandable by physicians and patients. Additionally, MRI scans are not affected by changes in humidity or temperature which makes them very reliable when it comes to detecting health problems. MRI scanners use 2D images or 3D models to produce these comprehensive pictures. While many people find this technology anxiety-provoking, it's important to remember that MRIs provide much-needed information for both doctors and patients.
- Ultrasound - Ultrasound is a medical technology that uses sound waves to image the body. It is often used for various scans including fetal monitoring, breast exams, and cancer screenings. Ultrasound images are usually very clear and used to determine the severity of conditions or injuries. Additionally, ultrasounds allow doctors to see inside organs in more detail than other types of imaging procedures. There are many benefits associated with using ultrasound technology, including improved accuracy during surgeries and faster diagnosis times when compared to other methods. In addition, ultrasound help reduces pain and swelling after surgery by delivering medications directly into targeted areas without damaging surrounding tissue or nerves. 10.1% of ultrasound exams were carried out in the first trimester of pregnancy, followed by 57.0% in the second and 32.9% in the third.
