Imaging centers
Imaging centers use numerous advanced methods of testing to provide images to aid in the diagnosis of various diseases or conditions. Among the types of imaging, and the purpose for each, are as follows:
- Bone density is determined using Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) to measure bone density and detect osteoporosis.
- Computed Tomography, better known as a CT scan, uses X-rays to produce multiple images (either two-dimensional or three-dimensional) of the inside of the body, which are examined on a computer monitor.
- Digital mammography uses X-rays to create a digital image of the breast, which is viewed on a computer monitor.
- Fluoroscopy is a study of moving body structures - similar to an x-ray "movie."
- Infrared imaging is a technique of capturing invisible infrared images and converting them into visible images.
- Magnetic resonance imaging, better known as an MRI, utilizes a powerful magnet to render images of the anatomy.
- Magnetic resonance angiography, or an MR angiography (MRA), is an MRI study of the blood vessels. It utilizes MRI technology to detect, diagnose and aid the treatment of heart disorders, stroke, and blood vessel diseases. MRA provides detailed images of blood vessels without using any contrast material, although a special form of contrast material is often given to make the MRI images even clearer.
- Positron Emissions Tomography, better know as a PET scan, is a diagnostic scan that measures metabolic activity and cellular function.
- Thermography is a medical screening device for breast cancer and other breast disease using infrared detectors, commonly called infrared cameras.
- Ultrasound involves exposing part of the body to high-frequency sound waves to produce pictures of the inside of the body.
- Vascular imaging uses radioactive substances to chart the flow of blood through the heart and blood vessels.
- Virtual colonoscopy is a sophisticated technique using a combination of a CT scanner, powerful digital processing, virtual reality computer software, and a computer workstation to look inside the body without having to insert a long tube into the colon (conventional colonoscopy) or having to fill the colon with liquid barium (barium enema).
- X-rays are type of picture that your doctor uses to make a quick and accurate diagnosis. A small amount of radiation is used to make this picture.
