What Are the Risks Associated with Radiological Imaging?
While radiological imaging is generally safe, there are some risks to consider:
- Radiation exposure: Techniques like X-rays and CT scans involve ionizing radiation, which can increase the risk of cancer over time. However, the benefits often outweigh the risks, especially in cancer diagnosis and treatment. - Contrast agents: Used in CT and MRI scans to enhance image quality, but they can cause allergic reactions or kidney problems in some patients. - Procedure-related risks: Interventional radiology procedures, though minimally invasive, carry risks such as bleeding, infection, and damage to surrounding tissues.
