Final answer:
Medical imaging comprises the transformation of X-rays or other data into two-dimensional or three-dimensional images, the understanding of radiographic composition, and the various imaging modalities and techniques used to create images of the body for diagnosis and treatment planning.
Step-by-step explanation:
Modern Medical Imaging
The process of transforming X-rays or other data into a visible two-dimensional or three-dimensional image is referred to as image reconstruction, which is a crucial aspect of medical imaging modalities like Computed Tomography (CT). Radiographic composition involves understanding the physical and technical factors that contribute to the creation of medical images, whether they are digital or based on traditional film. The term imaging modality refers to the various types of equipment and methods used to create images of the human body's structures and functions, such as CT, MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), PET (Positron Emission Tomography), and ultrasound. Finally, radiographic technique pertains to the settings and protocols used in obtaining radiographic images, such as voltage, current, exposure time, and the positioning of the patient relative to the imaging apparatus.
X-ray technologists may specialize in different imaging modalities and have the important role of preparing patients and ensuring accurate imaging results that radiologists and physicians use for diagnosis and treatment planning. Comparative to older X-ray technology, CT scans and other modern techniques allow for more complex visualization of the body's internal structures. These techniques have greatly enhanced the clarity and the amount of information that can be obtained from medical images, further aiding in the diagnosis and monitoring of a variety of conditions.