Exposure to certain radioisotopes can cause cancer. In certain nuclear medicine imaging procedures, radioisotopes are injected. In breast cancer, radioisotopes are used to check for metastasis to the bones. The films taken by the technologist are sent to a radiologist to be read. Effective in blocking x-rays.
Some contrast agents used in various x-ray procedures are also radiopaque.
Also called radiodense. Treatment with radiation to destroy cancer cells. External sources of radiation used include linear accelerators, cobalt, and betatrons. This type of treatment may be used to reduce the size of a cancer before surgery, or to destroy any remaining cancer cells after surgery. Also called radiation therapy and irradiation.