The first method of visualizing the human brain is contrast X-rays. The technique involves injecting one body compartment with a substance that absorbs more or fewer X-rays than the tissue surrounding it (Angulakshmi & Lakshmi., 2017). The advantage of this method is that conditions, such as tumors, can be easily identified using X-rays. On the contrary, the radiation can lead to cancer since bones absorb these radiations. X-rays are used by doctors to detect fractures and dislocations in the body.
The second method is X-ray Computed Tomography (CT), and it is similar to the first one in that they both use x-ray procedures in visualizing internal body structures, such as the brain (Servello et al., 2016). An advantage of this method is that CT images eliminate overlapping structures, making the required picture more apparent. The disadvantage of this method is that it does not produce high-resolution images. CT scans help in detecting joint and bone problems, such as complex bone fractures.
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Magnetic resonance imaging is another method, and it involves passing strong magnetic waves through the head. The method does not use radiations (X-rays), and this makes it different from the first two. The advantage that this method has is that it does not expose the brain to X-rays like computerized tomography (Guggenheim, Lynch & Rappoport, 2017). However, MRI scanners are costly, hence cannot be afforded by many people. It is an accurate method used to detect disease throughout the body, especially when other methods have failed.
Next, we have the positron emission tomography (PET) method. The current version of PET involves injecting radiations into a patient’s body. Therefore, it is similar to CT and X-ray techniques. PET scans are more effective since they can detect a disease before the signs and symptoms start showing (Bin & HU, 2018). On the other hand, the method produces radioactive elements that might lead to complications, particularly to pregnant women. PET scans are mostly used in detecting cancer.
Another approach to visualizing the living human brain is the functional MRI technique. The method uses a magnetic field and radio waves to take brain images. Hence, it is similar to the MRI technique. The advantage of this method over PET is that it has a better resolution, nothing is injected into the body, and it provides both structural and functional information (Safi-Harb et al., 2015). A disadvantage of this method is that it is difficult to interpret the results of the way. It can be used to evaluate stroke effects or guide brain treatment.
We also have the magnetoencephalography (MEG). MEG is non-invasive, and it does not ionize radiations. It uses a magnetic field to produce images, just like MRIs. A significant advantage of MEG over fMRI is that it has a temporal resolution, which can indicate fast neural activity changes (Bhattacharyya et al., 2017). However, the method is not good at localizing the exact place in the brain that activity is taking place. The technique is used by doctors to determine whether a child is a candidate for seizure surgery.
Lastly, we have the transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) technique. The method involves developing a magnetic field below a positioned coil near the skull to affect activity in the cortex region (Guggenheim, Lynch & Rappoport, 2017). Therefore, it is similar to MRIs and MEG and different from the remaining methods that use radiations. An advantage of TMS is that it does not require anaesthesia when in use. On the contrary, the method causes skin redness where the coil was placed. The process is preferred where other methods of treating depression have not been effective.
References
Angulakshmi, M., & Lakshmi, P. G. G. (2017). Automated brain tumour segmentation techniques—A review. International Journal of Imaging Systems and Technology , 27(1), 66-77.
Bhattacharyya, S., Khasnobish, A., Ghosh, P., Mazumder, A., & Tibarewala, D. N. (2017). A Review on Brain Imaging Techniques for BCI Applications. In Medical Imaging: Concepts, Methodologies, Tools, and Applications (pp. 300-330). IGI Global.
Bin, H. U., & HU, H. Y. (2018). Application of 18F-FET PET imaging in diagnosing brain glioma. Chinese Medical Equipment Journal , 39(6), 96-101.
Guggenheim, E. J., Lynch, I., & Rappoport, J. Z. (2017). Imaging In focus: Reflected light imaging: Techniques and applications. The International Journal of Biochemistry & Cell Biology , 83, 65-70.
Safi-Harb, M., Proulx, S., von Ellenrieder, N., & Gotman, J. (2015). Advantages and disadvantages of a fast fMRI sequence in the context of EEG–fMRI investigation of epilepsy patients: a realistic simulation study. NeuroImage , 119, 20-32.
Servello, D., Zekaj, E., Saleh, C., Pacchetti, C., & Porta, M. (2016). The pros and cons of intraoperative CT scan in the evaluation of deep brain stimulation lead implantation: A retrospective study. Surgical Neurology International , 7(19), 551.
