This subspecialty of diagnostic radiology encompasses plain film diagnosis of the skull, sinuses, mastoids, spinal and head and neck structures. It also includes all other imaging and special procedures related to the central nervous system and head and neck, including angiography, myelography, interventional techniques and magnetic resonance imaging. Neuroradiologists use images to help diagnose nervous system disorders, including diseases of the brain, spinal cord, nerves and muscles.
Working Together With Other Physicians
Neuroradiologists work closely with other physicians and with the patient. It is important to Radiology & Imaging that we make certain communication is clear and complete among the patient, the patient’s personal physician and every other physician who may be involved with the patient. Our neuroradiology head and neck radiologists frequently work with many different types of physicians including:
- Neurologists
- Neurosurgeons
- Otolaryngologists (ear, nose and throat)
- Ophthalmologists
Common Health Issues and Body Systems
Head, neck, nerve and spine conditions make up the bulk of the work for a neuroradiologist. The radiologist may perform exams that help diagnose an eye or brain injury. He or she may work with a neurologist to assess the nerves of the head and neck or examine a spinal injury. It is a most challenging subspecialty because the human nervous system is such an intricate and complex network of fibers that spans the entire body and functions in complicated and even mysterious ways.
Collaborating With the Patient and Referring Physician
Personal physicians vary on how they choose to work with neuroradiologists. The health issue, the patient, the radiologist’s experience and other factors play a role in determining this relationship. We prefer to have our radiologists as actively involved as possible. Their active involvement puts their extensive training and experience to best use. A high degree of expertise enables a neuroradiologist to better read and properly identify characteristics in the images. The referring or personal physician then receives maximum input to diagnose the condition, treat it and give the patient the best opportunity for better long-term health.