Radiology

Radiology is a branch of medicine that constitutes one of the cornerstones of modern medicine and plays an indispensable role in the diagnosis of diseases. In today's world, where imaging technologies are rapidly developing, the radiology department serves a critical function not only for diagnosis but also for the planning and monitoring of treatment processes. Koru Hospital Radiology Department aims to provide patients with the most accurate and rapid diagnostic services through its state-of-the-art devices and experienced specialist staff.

What is Radiology and Why is it Important?

Radiology is a branch of medicine that allows for the detailed examination of the body's internal structures using advanced imaging methods such as X-rays, ultrasound waves, magnetic resonance, and computed tomography. Radiological imaging methods are accepted as the primary reference source in the processes of early diagnosis of diseases, the creation of treatment plans, and the evaluation of treatment response.

Today, almost all branches of medicine utilize radiology in their diagnostic and treatment processes. From oncology to cardiology, and from orthopedics to neurology, radiological imaging methods are an integral part of clinical decision-making processes across a wide spectrum. Therefore, the technological infrastructure of the radiology department and the quality of its expert staff are among the factors that directly affect the overall service quality of a healthcare institution.

Imaging Services Offered at Koru Hospital Radiology Department

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Magnetic resonance imaging is an advanced technique that uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to image the soft tissue structures of the body in extreme detail. Considered a safe method due to the absence of radiation, MRI is preferred especially in the evaluation of the brain, spinal cord, joints, abdominal organs, and vascular structures.

The high-Tesla MRI devices used within Koru Hospital allow for the detection of even millimeter-sized lesions. Thanks to advanced techniques such as diffusion MRI, perfusion MRI, MR angiography, and MR spectroscopy, accurate diagnoses can be made even in the early stages of diseases.

Computed Tomography (CT)

Computed tomography is an imaging method that uses X-rays to obtain cross-sectional images of the body and can reconstruct these images in three dimensions. It is accepted as the gold standard in the evaluation of emergency situations, screening of trauma patients, cancer staging, and many different clinical scenarios.

Multi-slice CT technology plays a life-saving role in emergencies by allowing the entire body to be scanned in seconds. It is possible to evaluate cardiovascular diseases with non-invasive methods using CT angiography, perform virtual examinations of the large intestine with CT colonoscopy, and minimize radiation exposure with low-dose CT protocols.

Ultrasonography

Ultrasonography is a safe, radiation-free imaging method that uses sound waves to provide real-time imaging of internal body structures. It has a wide range of applications, from pregnancy follow-up to the evaluation of abdominal organs, and from the examination of the thyroid gland to the mapping of vascular structures.

With Doppler ultrasonography, the direction and speed of blood flow can be evaluated; with elastography, tissue stiffness can be measured; and with contrast-enhanced ultrasonography, organ perfusion can be examined. Ultrasonography is also widely used for guidance in interventional procedures such as biopsies and drainage.

Digital X-Ray (Direct Radiography)

Digital X-ray is one of the most widely used and fastest imaging methods. It is preferred as the first-line imaging method in many clinical situations, primarily for screening lung diseases, detecting bone fractures, evaluating joint diseases, and examining dental problems.

Thanks to digital technology, image quality has improved, radiation dose has decreased, and the storage and sharing of images in electronic environments have become easier. The ability to compare patients' current images with previous ones provides a great advantage in monitoring the course of a disease.

Mammography

Mammography is a special X-ray technique accepted as the most effective screening method for the early diagnosis of breast cancer. Digital mammography and tomosynthesis (three-dimensional mammography) technologies allow for the layered examination of breast tissue, significantly increasing diagnostic accuracy, especially in women with dense breast tissue.

Regular mammography screening in women over the age of forty ensures that breast cancer is caught at an early stage and increases treatment success rates. Koru Hospital Radiology Department offers top-tier service in this field with modern mammography devices that obtain high-resolution images with low-dose radiation.

Interventional Radiology

Interventional radiology is of great importance as a specialized sub-branch that covers minimally invasive diagnostic and treatment procedures performed under the guidance of imaging methods. Biopsy procedures, abscess and fluid drainages, tumor ablations, endovascular treatments, and pain management interventions are the primary fields of application for this specialty.

Compared to traditional surgical methods, these procedures are less invasive, shorten hospital stays, reduce the risk of complications, and accelerate the recovery process. Image-guided biopsies performed on organs such as the liver, kidney, lung, and thyroid play a critical role in confirming cancer diagnoses.

Bone Densitometry (DEXA)

Bone densitometry is an imaging method used to measure bone mineral density and is accepted as the gold standard in the diagnosis of osteoporosis. This examination, which is recommended to be performed regularly, especially in postmenopausal women and individuals with a high risk of fractures, uses a very low dose of radiation.

The T-score and Z-score values obtained with a DEXA scan are used to determine whether bone density is within normal limits or at the level of osteopenia or osteoporosis. In this way, preventive treatment can be started before a fracture occurs, and quality of life can be preserved.

Quality and Safety Standards in Radiology

Koru Hospital Radiology Department provides services in accordance with international quality standards. In line with the ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) principle, radiation doses are kept at the lowest possible level, and additional protective measures are taken, especially for pediatric and pregnant patients.

All imaging devices undergo regular calibration and maintenance, and image quality is continuously monitored. Radiologists evaluate each image with a systematic approach and prepare detailed reports. Active participation in multidisciplinary council meetings is ensured to support the joint decision-making process in complex cases.

Teleradiology and Digital Archiving

The PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication System), an indispensable component of modern radiology practice, ensures that all images are stored in a digital environment and accessed instantly when needed. Thanks to this system, patients' past images can be compared with current findings, and the course of the disease can be evaluated objectively.

With the teleradiology infrastructure, images can be interpreted remotely, offering the opportunity for rapid consultation in emergency situations. Through RIS (Radiology Information System) integration, appointment scheduling, workflow management, and report distribution are carried out effectively.

In Which Situations Should You Consult the Radiology Department?

• Post-trauma and accident evaluation: Bone fractures, internal organ injuries, and hemorrhage control
• Cancer screening and staging: Mammography, lung screening with low-dose CT, whole-body imaging
• Neurological complaints: Headaches, dizziness, symptoms of stroke, epilepsy
• Abdominal pain and digestive system problems: Appendicitis, gallstones, kidney stones, bowel obstruction
• Musculoskeletal system diseases: Joint pain, disc herniation, meniscus tears, tendon injuries
• Vascular diseases: Deep vein thrombosis, aneurysm, vascular stenosis
• Pregnancy follow-up: Fetal development assessment, anomaly screening
• Osteoporosis screening: Bone density measurement and fracture risk assessment
• Interventional procedures: Biopsy, drainage, ablation, and endovascular treatments

Points to Consider During Preparation for Radiological Examinations

Each imaging method has its own specific preparation requirements. Before contrast-enhanced CT and MRI examinations, it may be necessary to perform kidney function tests, inquire about allergy history, and fast for a certain period. Before ultrasonography, the requirement for fasting or a full bladder may vary depending on the region to be examined.

Patients with metallic implants, pacemakers, or cochlear implants must report this status before an MRI scan. It is also of great importance that patients who are pregnant or suspect pregnancy inform the healthcare personnel before the examination. Koru Hospital Radiology Department determines the most appropriate imaging protocol by performing an individual assessment for each patient.

AI-Assisted Imaging and Future Perspective

Artificial intelligence applications in the field of radiology are developing rapidly and being integrated into clinical practice. Computer-aided diagnostic systems help in the automatic detection of abnormal findings in images and lighten the workload of radiologists. Especially in mammography screening, evaluation of lung nodules, and brain imaging, artificial intelligence algorithms are showing promising results.

Koru Hospital Radiology Department aims to continuously increase its service quality by closely following these technological developments. Current and future AI-assisted solutions provide significant contributions to increasing diagnostic accuracy and shortening reporting times.

In the Koru Hospital Radiology department, our specialist physicians offer our patients accurate diagnoses and reliable results with the latest technology imaging devices and comprehensive experience. You can consult our department for all your imaging needs regarding your health.