Modality

In medical imaging, modality refers to a specific imaging technique or technology used to visualize structures inside the body. Common modalities include ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), X-ray, positron emission tomography (PET), and nuclear medicine studies. Each modality has different strengths and weaknesses regarding image quality, radiation exposure, cost, and availability. In the context of ultrasound, sonography is the ultrasound modality. Referring physicians often order a specific modality based on what they are trying to evaluate, and radiologists and sonographers must understand the capabilities and limitations of their assigned modality to use it effectively.