Thrombolyse / Thrombolysis , How it works, When it’s used, Risks / Complications.

 Thrombolyse / Thrombolysis means breaking down or dissolving a blood clot (thrombus) that is blocking blood flow in a blood vessel.

🔹 How it works:

• Special medicines called thrombolytic agents (e.g., Alteplase [tPA], Streptokinase, Urokinase) are injected into a vein or directly into the blocked vessel.

• These drugs activate the body’s own clot-dissolving system by converting plasminogen → plasmin, which breaks down fibrin (the main clot component).

🔹 When it’s used:

• Acute ischemic stroke (within 4.5 hours of onset)

• Myocardial infarction (heart attack) (when PCI isn’t available quickly)

• Massive pulmonary embolism (PE) with shock

• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or limb ischemia in selected cases

🔹 Risks / Complications:

• Major risk is bleeding, especially intracranial hemorrhage

• Contraindicated in patients with recent surgery, trauma, uncontrolled hypertension, or bleeding disorders

👉 So, in short: Thrombolysis = clot-busting treatment to restore blood flow and save tissue/organ function.

MRI vs CT Scan – Which Scan Is Better and When?

 

MRI vs CT Scan – Which Scan Is Better and When?

Medical imaging plays a crucial role in diagnosing diseases. Two of the most commonly used imaging tests are MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) and CT (Computed Tomography). Many patients and students often ask:
Which scan is better – MRI or CT?
The answer depends on the medical condition and body part being examined.

Let’s understand this in simple terms.

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What is a CT Scan?

CT scan uses X-rays to create detailed cross-sectional images of the body. It is fast and widely available, making it very useful in emergency situations.

CT Scan is better for:

• Head injury & trauma

• Brain hemorrhage (bleeding)

• Lung diseases (HRCT chest)

• Bone fractures

• Abdomen emergencies

• CT Angiography

Advantages of CT:

✔ Very fast scan
✔ Excellent for bones and lungs
✔ Best for emergency cases

⚠ CT uses ionizing radiation, so unnecessary repeated scans should be avoided.

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What is an MRI Scan?

MRI uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to produce high-resolution images of soft tissues. It does not use radiation.

MRI is better for:

• Brain tumors & stroke (non-emergency)

• Spine problems (slip disc, nerve compression)

• Knee, shoulder & joint injuries

• Ligaments & cartilage

• Soft tissue tumors

Advantages of MRI:

✔ No radiation
✔ Excellent soft-tissue contrast
✔ Very detailed images

⚠ MRI takes longer time and is not suitable for patients with certain metal implants.

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MRI vs CT – Quick Comparison Table

Feature	MRI	CT
Radiation	❌ No	✔ Yes
Technology	Magnet & radio waves	X-rays
Best for	Soft tissues	Bones & lungs
Scan time	Longer	Faster
Emergency use	Limited	Excellent
Cost	Higher	Lower

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Which scan is better and when?

Choose CT Scan when:

• Emergency or trauma case

• Suspected internal bleeding

• Lung or bone evaluation

• Quick diagnosis is required

Choose MRI Scan when:

• Detailed soft-tissue evaluation needed

• Brain, spine, joints, or nerves

• Repeated follow-up scans

• Radiation exposure should be avoided

👉 Final decision is always made by the doctor, based on clinical condition.

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Conclusion

✔ CT and MRI are both powerful diagnostic tools
✔ CT is best for speed, bones, lungs, and emergencies
✔ MRI is best for soft tissues and radiation-free imaging

Understanding the difference helps patients feel more confident and helps students build strong fundamentals in radiology.

For more radiology education and imaging guidance, follow Radiographic Gyan.

Shoulder Joint Ligaments and Tendons in MRI: A Simple Guide, 🔹 What Are Tendons?, Why MRI Is Best for Shoulder Ligament & Tendon Evaluation

 

Shoulder Joint Ligaments and Tendons in MRI: A Simple Guide

The shoulder joint is one of the most complex and mobile joints in the human body. Because of its wide range of movement, it depends heavily on ligaments and tendons for strength and stability. MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is the best tool to visualize these soft tissues clearly.

In this post, let’s understand the ligaments and tendons seen in shoulder MRI and why MRI is so beneficial for diagnosing shoulder problems.

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🔹 What Are Ligaments?

Ligaments are strong, fibrous bands that connect bone to bone.
In the shoulder joint, they help maintain stability and prevent excessive movement.

Important Shoulder Ligaments Seen on MRI:

• Glenohumeral ligaments (Superior, Middle, Inferior)

• Coracohumeral ligament

• Coracoacromial ligament

• Coracoclavicular ligament

These ligaments keep the humeral head in place and prevent dislocation.

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🔹 What Are Tendons?

Tendons connect muscle to bone and help in shoulder movement.

Major Shoulder Tendons Visible on MRI:

• Rotator cuff tendons

  • Supraspinatus

  • Infraspinatus

  • Subscapularis

  • Teres minor

• Long head of biceps tendon

These tendons assist with arm lifting, rotation, and stabilization.

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🔹 Why MRI Is Best for Shoulder Ligament & Tendon Evaluation

MRI offers excellent soft-tissue detail without radiation. It can show even small tears or inflammation.

⭐ Benefits of MRI for Shoulder Joint:

1️⃣ Detects Tears Early

MRI can identify:

• Partial thickness tears

• Full-thickness tears

• Tendon degeneration

• Ligament sprains

Early detection prevents long-term complications.

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2️⃣ Shows Inflammation Clearly

Conditions like:

• Tendinosis

• Bursitis

• Tendonitis
  are easily visible on MRI.

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3️⃣ Helps in Diagnosing Rotator Cuff Injuries

Rotator cuff tears are one of the most common causes of shoulder pain.
MRI accurately shows the size, depth, and retraction of the tear.

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4️⃣ Guides Doctors for Treatment Planning

MRI helps orthopedics decide:

• Physiotherapy

• Injection therapy

• Arthroscopy

• Surgery

Better imaging → Better treatment.

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5️⃣ No Radiation Exposure

MRI uses magnetic fields, making it safer than CT or X-ray for soft-tissue evaluation.

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🔹 Common Shoulder Pathologies Seen on MRI

• Rotator cuff tear

• Tendinosis

• Biceps tendon tear

• Labral tear

• Ligament sprain

• Impingement syndrome

• Frozen shoulder changes

• Bursitis

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🩺 Conclusion

MRI is the most reliable and detailed imaging technique for evaluating shoulder ligaments and tendons.
It helps detect injuries early, plan proper treatment, and monitor recovery — making it essential for patients with shoulder pain or movement difficulty.

What Precautions Should Be Taken After a CT Scan?, CT Scan Aftercare: Precautions to Take After a CT Scan

 

What Precautions Should Be Taken After a CT Scan?

A CT scan is a commonly used medical imaging test that helps doctors see detailed images of internal organs, bones, and blood vessels. Most CT scans are safe and do not require special care afterward. However, some precautions are important, especially if contrast dye was used.

Let’s understand what precautions should be taken after a CT scan in simple language.

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1. Drink Plenty of Water

If contrast dye was used during your CT scan:

• Drink plenty of water over the next 24 hours

• Water helps flush the contrast dye out of the body through urine

• This reduces the load on the kidneys

💧 Aim for 8–10 glasses of water unless your doctor advises otherwise.

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2. Resume Normal Diet (Unless Advised)

• In most cases, you can eat normally after the CT scan

• If you were fasting, start with light food

• Follow special dietary instructions if given by your doctor

---

3. Observe for Contrast Reactions

Although rare, some patients may experience mild side effects after contrast injection, such as:

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Headache

• Skin rash or itching

⚠️ Seek medical help immediately if you notice:

• Difficulty breathing

• Swelling of face or lips

• Severe itching or rash

• Dizziness or fainting

---

4. Take Care of the Injection Site

If contrast was injected through a vein:

• Mild pain or swelling at the injection site is usually normal

• Avoid heavy activity with that arm for a few hours

• Apply a cold compress if advised

📞 Contact the hospital if redness, pain, or swelling increases.

---

5. Special Care for Diabetic Patients

• Diabetic patients, especially those on metformin, should:

  • Follow the doctor’s advice regarding medicines

  • Monitor blood sugar levels

• Inform your doctor if you feel unwell after the scan

---

6. Rest if You Feel Tired

• Some patients feel slightly tired or weak

• Take adequate rest if needed

• Normal activities can usually be resumed the same day

---

7. When Can You Get the CT Scan Report?

• Report timing depends on the hospital or diagnostic center

• Emergency scans may be reported earlier

• Ask the radiology staff about report collection or online access

---

8. Is There Any Radiation Risk After CT Scan?

• CT scan radiation does not remain in the body

• There is no risk to family members

• You can safely interact with others after the scan

---

Conclusion

After a CT scan:
✅ Drink plenty of water
✅ Resume normal diet and activities
✅ Watch for any unusual symptoms
✅ Follow doctor’s advice carefully

CT scans are safe, and following these simple precautions ensures a smooth and comfortable recovery.

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✍️ Written for Public Awareness

By: Suyog Nikam
Radiographer & Application Specialist
Radiographic Gyan

Why Is Fasting Required Before a CT Scan?

A CT scan is an advanced medical imaging test that shows clear, detailed images of the internal organs of the body. In many cases, doctors advise patients to follow fasting (empty stomach) instructions before undergoing a CT scan.

But why is fasting necessary before a CT scan? Let’s understand this in simple terms.

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What Does Fasting Mean?

Fasting means avoiding food and drinks for a few hours before the scan.

Generally:

• 4–6 hours of fasting is required

• Sometimes only plain water is allowed

---

Why Is Fasting Important for a CT Scan?

1️⃣ For Contrast Injection Safety

Many CT scans require a contrast dye (given through IV injection or orally).

• Contrast may cause nausea or vomiting

• If the stomach is full, the risk of vomiting increases

• Fasting helps reduce these side effects and improves patient safety

---

2️⃣ For Clear and Accurate Images

When the stomach is full:

• Food and gas can distort CT images

• Organs like the liver, pancreas, and abdomen may not be clearly visible

Fasting helps produce better image quality and more accurate diagnosis.

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3️⃣ To Prevent Emergency Complications

Contrast reactions are rare, but if vomiting occurs while the patient is lying down:

• There is a risk of aspiration (vomit entering the airway)

Fasting significantly reduces this risk and keeps the patient safe.

---

4️⃣ For Better Effect of Oral Contrast

In some CT scans, patients are asked to drink oral contrast.

• On an empty stomach, contrast is absorbed more effectively

• The stomach and bowel appear clearer on images

---

CT Scans That Usually Require Fasting

✔ CT Abdomen & Pelvis
✔ CT Whole Abdomen
✔ Contrast-Enhanced CT (CECT)
✔ CT Angiography
✔ CT Liver / Pancreas Study

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CT Scans That Usually Do NOT Require Fasting

❌ CT Brain (Plain)
❌ CT Spine
❌ CT Chest (Plain)
❌ CT Bone Studies

⚠️ Final fasting instructions depend on the doctor or radiology department.

---

Is Drinking Water Allowed?

✔ Yes, plain water is usually allowed
❌ Tea, coffee, milk, and juice should be avoided

---

Special Advice for Diabetic Patients

• Diabetic patients should inform their doctor in advance

• Fasting and medication schedules are adjusted by the doctor

• Never stop eating or taking medicines without medical advice

---

Conclusion

Fasting before a CT scan is important for:
✅ Patient safety
✅ Clear and accurate imaging
✅ Reducing contrast-related side effects

Always follow the radiology department’s instructions for the best and safest results.

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✍️ Written for Public Awareness

By: Suyog Nikam
Radiographer & Application Specialist
Radiographic Gyan

CT scan radiation dose kya hota hai? mSv ka matlab simple language mein samjhiye. CT scan safe hai ya nahi, radiation facts explained easily.

 

CT Scan Radiation Dose Kya Hota Hai? (mSv Explained Simply)

Introduction

Aaj ke time mein CT Scan ek bahut important medical test ban chuka hai. Lekin jab bhi CT Scan ka naam aata hai, log ek sawaal zaroor poochte hain –
“CT Scan mein radiation kitni hoti hai?”
Aur saath hi ek aur confusion hota hai – mSv kya hota hai?

Is blog mein hum radiation dose, mSv ka matlab, aur CT Scan kitna safe hai – sab kuch samjhenge.

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Radiation Dose Kya Hoti Hai?

Radiation dose ka matlab hota hai human body ko kitni radiation mil rahi hai during any imaging test.

Medical imaging mein radiation dose ko millisievert (mSv) mein measure kiya jaata hai.

👉 Simple words mein:
mSv = body par radiation ka effect

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mSv (Millisievert) Kya Hota Hai?

• Sievert (Sv) radiation ka unit hai

• Millisievert (mSv) = 1/1000 of Sievert

Medical field mein hamesha mSv ka use hota hai kyunki doses bahut kam hoti hain.

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CT Scan Mein Kitni Radiation Hoti Hai?

Scan Type	Approx Radiation Dose
Chest X-ray	0.1 mSv
CT Head	2 mSv
CT Chest	6–7 mSv
CT Abdomen	8–10 mSv
Whole Body CT	10–20 mSv

👉 Important:
CT Scan ki radiation normal X-ray se zyada hoti hai, lekin controlled aur calculated hoti hai.

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Daily Life Mein Radiation Exposure

Aap bina CT Scan ke bhi radiation le rahe hote ho:

• Natural background radiation (1 year) → 3 mSv

• Flight travel (India to USA) → 0.03–0.05 mSv

👉 Matlab radiation sirf CT Scan se hi nahi, nature se bhi milti hai.

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CT Scan Safe Hai Ya Nahi?

✔ Yes, CT Scan safe hota hai jab:

• Doctor ne recommend kiya ho

• Proper protocol follow kiya jaata ho

• Modern CT machine ka use ho

❌ Unnecessary CT Scan avoid karna chahiye

Radiologist aur Radiographer hamesha ALARA principle follow karte hain:

ALARA Principle

A – As
L – Low
A – As
R – Reasonably
A – Achievable

Matlab jitni kam radiation mein kaam ho sake, utni hi di jaaye.

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Radiation Dose Kam Kaise Rakhi Jaati Hai?

• Low dose CT protocols

• Automated dose modulation

• Patient size ke according settings

• Limited scan area

• Advanced CT technology

---

Patients Ko Kya Dhyan Rakhna Chahiye?

✔ Doctor se pooche CT kyun zaroori hai
✔ Purane CT/X-ray reports saath le jaaye
✔ Pregnancy ho to pehle bataaye
✔ Fear mein CT avoid na kare agar zaroori ho

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Conclusion

CT Scan ki radiation controlled, measured aur safe limits mein hoti hai.
Jab CT Scan diagnosis ke liye zaroori hota hai, to uska benefit radiation risk se kaafi zyada hota hai.

📌 Yaad rakhiye:
👉 Right test at the right time = Safe & Accurate diagnosis

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Written by:

Suyog Nikam
Radiographer & Application Specialist
Founder – Radiographic Gyan

CT PA HOW TO DO CT PULMONARY ANGIO, WHY DO CT PA, STEP BY STEP GUIDE CT PA.

CT Pulmonary Angiography (CTPA) is the standard imaging technique to evaluate pulmonary embolism (PE) and pulmonary vasculature. I’ll guide you step by step:

Patient Preparation

1. Indications: Suspected pulmonary embolism, pulmonary artery abnormalities, vascular malformations, pre-surgical evaluation.

2. Consent: Explain contrast use, possible side effects.

3. Check labs: Serum creatinine / GFR (to assess kidney function).

4. Check history: Allergy to iodine contrast, asthma, thyroid disease.

5. IV Access: Large bore IV cannula (18–20G) in antecubital vein.

6. Breath-hold training: Patient must hold breath during scan to avoid motion.

Scan Protocol

Scanner: Any multislice CT (64-slice or higher preferred).

• Patient position: Supine, head first.

• Scan range: From thoracic inlet to just below costophrenic angles.

• ECG gating: Not required (except for suspected RV strain/cardiac assessment).

Contrast Injection

• Contrast: Non-ionic iodinated contrast (e.g., 60–80 ml).

• Injection rate: 4–5 ml/sec (high flow).

• Use a power injector with saline chaser (30–40 ml).

Bolus Tracking (Smart Prep)

• ROI (Region of Interest): Main pulmonary artery / right ventricle outflow tract.

• Trigger threshold: ~100–150 HU.

• Start scan after 3–5 sec delay once threshold is reached.

Scan Parameters (Typical)

• kVp: 100–120 (depending on patient size).

• mAs: Automated (dose modulation ON).

• Slice thickness: 0.5–1.25 mm (thin slices for 3D).

• Pitch: 0.9–1.2.

• Rotation time: 0.5 sec.

• Reconstruction: Axial, coronal, sagittal, MIP (maximum intensity projection), VR (volume rendering).

Post-processing

• Review axial images first.

• Use MIP for vessel tracing.

• Evaluate pulmonary arteries from main PA → lobar → segmental → subsegmental levels.

• Check for: Filling defects, clot burden, right heart strain.

Tips for Best Quality

✅ Ensure tight bolus timing → scan during peak pulmonary artery opacification.
✅ Avoid respiratory motion → good breath-hold.
✅ Use saline flush → reduces streak artifacts from SVC/RA.
✅ In obese patients → increase kVp (120–140).