Pelvic Ultrasound

A pelvic ultrasound is a noninvasive (the skin is not pierced) procedure used to assess organs and structures within the female pelvis. A pelvic ultrasound allows quick visualization of the female pelvic organs and structures including the uterus, cervix, vagina, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. Doppler ultrasound may also show blood flow in certain pelvic organs.

Urological Malignancies Treatment

Urological malignancies are cancers affecting any area of the urinary system (kidneys, urethra, bladder, etc.)  in males and females, and the reproductive system in males (testes, prostate, epididymis, etc.). Treatment options may include chemotherapy, radiation and/or surgery.

Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt (TIPS)

This procedure, also called TIPS, is performed using only a local anesthetic and a sedative. A long needle is inserted by way of the jugular vein in the neck, advanced into a hepatic vein and then into a large branch of the portal vein in the liver. Using an inflatable balloon-tipped catheter tube, the section between the portal vein branch and the hepatic vein is widened and then kept open (stented) with a cylindrical wire-mesh stent.

Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiogram with Stone Removal

This is an x-ray and procedure to remove stones in the common bile duct.

Common Bile Duct Exploration

A common bile duct exploration is sometimes performed when a stone is found blocking the common bile duct. Tubes, catheters and x-ray guidance are used in this procedure.

Double-Contrast Barium Enema

In a double-contrast barium enema (also called an air-contrast study), the colon is first filled with barium and then the barium is drained out, leaving only a thin layer of barium on the wall of the colon. The colon is then filled with air. This provides a detailed view of the inner surface of the colon, making it easier to see colon polyps, colorectal cancer or inflammation.

Cardiolyte Stress Testing

A cardiolyte stress test helps your doctor determine if areas of the heart are not receiving enough blood. The test is done in two parts, allowing the doctor to compare how much blood flows throughout the heart muscle during stress (exercise performed on the treadmill) and at rest.

Biplane Angiography

Used for diagnostic and interventional procedures primarily in the brain and neck, biplane angiography allows physicians to view complex vessel structures, make them transparent and visualize what lies behind them.

Interventional Radiology and Vascular Studies

We participate in a variety of Interventional Radiology and Vascular Studies.

Neuroangiogram

A neuroangiogram is a type of x-ray that takes pictures of your blood vessels with the help of a "dye" that is injected into your arteries through a catheter. It is used to diagnose problems with the arteries or veins in the neck and brain.

Virtual Colonoscopy

Virtual colonoscopy (VC) is a medical imaging procedure which uses x-rays and computers to produce two- and three-dimensional images of the colon (large intestine) from the lowest part, the rectum, all the way to the lower end of the small intestine, and display them on a screen. The procedure is used to diagnose colon and bowel disease, including polyps, diverticulosis and cancer.

Cardiac MRI

Cardiac MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) uses special magnets and a computer to create images of the heart as it is beating, producing both still and moving pictures of the heart and major blood vessels. Doctors use cardiac MRI to get images of the beating heart and to look at the structure and function of the heart. These images can help them decide how best to treat patients with heart problems.

Venography

A venogram is an X-ray test that takes pictures of blood flow through the veins in a certain area of the body. A venogram can show the veins in your legs, pelvis, or arm; the veins leading to the heart; or the veins leaving your kidneys. Venography may be done to find a blood clot (deep vein thrombosis, or DVT).

Ultrasound

An ultrasound, also called sonography, is a diagnostic imaging technique which uses high-frequency sound waves and a computer to create images of blood vessels, tissues and organs. Ultrasounds are used to view internal organs as they function, and to assess blood flow through various vessels.

Transrectal Ultrasound

Transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) is a test using sound wave echoes to create an image of the prostate gland to visually inspect for abnormal conditions such as gland enlargement, nodules, penetration of tumor through capsule of the gland, and/or invasion of seminal vesicles; may also be used for guidance of needle biopsies of the prostate gland and/or guiding the nitrogen probes in cryosurgery.

Intravenous Pyelogram

An intravenous pyelogram (IVP) is a type of x-ray that allows visualization of the kidneys and ureters after the injection of a contrast dye. The dye helps enhance the image on an x-ray film.

As the contrast dye moves into and through the kidneys, ureters, and bladder, x-rays taken at short intervals can capture its movement. A delay in the contrast dye moving through the urinary system may indicate an obstruction in the kidney’s blood flow or poor kidney function.

A radiologist can then assess the function and detect abnormalities of the urinary system. This test is usually ordered as one of the first tests in cases of suspected kidney disease or urinary tract disorders.

Mammogram

A form of x-ray of the breast that can identify tissue abnormalities, including cancerous growths. Mammograms can detect breast cancer as much as two years before a lump can be felt.

Barium Enema

A barium enema (also called lower GI, or gastrointestinal, series) is  a procedure that examines the rectum, the large intestine and the lower part of the small intestine. A fluid called barium (a metallic, chemical, chalky, liquid used to coat the inside of organs so that they will show up on an x-ray) is given into the rectum as an enema. An x-ray of the abdomen shows strictures (narrowed areas), obstructions (blockages) and other problems.

Venous Doppler Ultrasound

A venous Doppler ultrasound is a diagnostic test used to check circulation. This exam shows any blockage in the veins by a blood clot or “thrombus” formation.

Thoracentesis

Thoracentesis is a procedure to remove fluid from the space between the lungs and the chest wall called the pleural space. It is done with a needle (and sometimes a plastic catheter) inserted through the chest wall. This pleural fluid may be sent to a lab to determine what may be causing the fluid to accumulate in the pleural space.

Sestamibi Breast Imaging

A type of breast imaging test that is used to detect cancer cells in the breasts of some women who have had abnormal mammograms, or who have dense breast tissue. Sestamibi breast imaging is not used for screening, or in place of a mammogram. In this test, a woman receives an injection of a small amount of a radioactive substance called technetium 99, which is taken up by cancer cells, and a gamma camera is used to take pictures of the breasts.

Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy

This procedure involves locating the few lymph nodes near the site of cancer that would receive lymph fluid drainage from the tumor itself. If any tumor cells have moved from the original area involved, those lymph nodes would most likely hold them. These lymph nodes are found using a radioactive tracer and blue dye.

Radioactive Iodine Therapy

Radioactive iodine therapy is commonly used to treat some types of thyroid conditions or cancer. Radioactive iodine (I-131), given in a liquid or capsule form, is absorbed and concentrated by the thyroid gland. The treatment destroys thyroid tissue, while sparing the rest of the body. Radioactive iodine has been safely used to treat thyroid nodules for more than 50 years.

Nuclear Stress Test

Tests on the heart which use small amounts of radioactive (nuclear) tracers and radiological imaging machines to evaluate the supply of blood to your heart muscle. During a nuclear stress test, a radioactive substance is injected into your bloodstream. This substance mixes with your blood and travels to your heart. A special scanner, which detects the radioactive material in your heart, creates images of your heart muscle.

Needle Localizations

A special examination for localizing questionable masses that cannot be felt but are seen on mammogram films. The radiologist places a needle with a wire into the area of abnormality. The needle remains in the breast once it is in the area of interest.  The patient then goes to the operating room for the biopsy procedure. The needle is used as a guide by the surgeon to ensure that the correct area of abnormality is removed.

PET Scan

Positron emission tomography (PET) is a nuclear medicine procedure that measures the metabolic activity of cells.

Myelogram

A myelogram is a specific x-ray study that allows careful evaluation of the spinal canal and nerve roots. It involves the injection of a dye or contrast material into the spinal canal.

MR-Guided Breast Biopsy

Taking a breast biopsy guided in real-time by magnetic resonance (MR) imaging. MR-guided breast biopsy is often a preferred alternative to surgical biopsy. It is used when ultrasound or mammogram (stereotactic) guided biopsy is not appropriate because the area of concern is not well seen by mammogram or ultrasound.

Mobile MRI

An MRI contained within a large truck, which can be moved from location to location. An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is a type of scan that, instead of X-rays, uses a large, powerful magnet to create an image of part of the body.

Multi-Slice CT

Multislice CT scans, or MSCT scans, often allow remarkably accurate imaging of the coronary arteries, and often, blockages in the coronary arteries can be seen quite clearly. The quality of the image with MSCT scans is partially related to the number of "slices" taken by the camera. Currently, 16-slice and 64-slice CT imagers are commercially available.

MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a diagnostic procedure that uses a combination of large magnets, radiofrequencies and a computer to produce detailed images of organs and structures within the body.

MRI with Sedation

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a diagnostic imaging technology that uses a strong magnet and radio waves to produce pictures or images of your internal body organs and structures. Patients who do not like small, tight places or who are in a great deal of pain may requre sedation for their MRI exam.

Gastrointestinal Procedures

Prodedures to diagnosis and/or treat conditions affecting the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, which is the part of the digestive tract where the body processes food and eliminates waste. It includes the esophagus, stomach, liver, small and large intestines, and rectum.

Interventional Neuroradiology

Interventional neuroradiology is a subspecialty that uses special techniques to treat vascular problems of the brain and spine. These strategies involve the use of catheters (hollow plastic tubes) to treat complex cerebrovascular problems from within the blood vessels. Using this technique, surgeons can perform a variety of procedures, such as embolization of intracranial and spinal vascular malformations, as well as cerebral angioplasty.

Galactography

Galactography is an x-ray examination that uses mammography, a low-dose x-ray system for examining breasts, and a contrast material to obtain pictures, called galactograms, of the inside of the breast's milk ducts.

fMRI (Functional MRI)

Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) uses magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to learn which regions of the brain are active in a specific function, as in speech.

Fluoroscopy

Fluoroscopy is an imaging technique commonly used by physicians to obtain real-time images of the internal structures of a patient through the use of a fluoroscope.

Fine Needle Aspiration

For a fine needle aspiration biopsy,  a very thin needle is placed into the lump or suspicious area to remove a small sample of fluid and/or tissue. No incision is necessary. A fine needle aspiration biopsy may be performed to help to differentiate a cyst from a lump.

Discogram

A discogram is a special x-ray that will help your physician determine which "discs" are causing your back pain.

Diagnostic Ultrasound (Sonogram)

Diagnostic ultrasound (sonography) is a non-invasive medical imaging technology that uses high frequency sound waves to form an image of body tissues. Information obtained from these images can be utilized along with other patient data in order to arrive at a medical diagnosis.

CT Scan

A computed tomography scan (also called a CT or CAT scan) is a diagnostic imaging procedure that uses a combination of x-rays and computer technology to produce cross-sectional images (often called slices), both horizontally and vertically, of the body. A CT scan shows detailed images of any part of the body, including the bones, muscles, fat and organs. CT scans are more detailed than general x-rays.

Coronary Artery Screening Exam

Blood pressure measurements determine if you have high blood pressure. High blood pressure is a risk factor for coronary artery disease. Blood tests are often done to measure cholesterol levels. High cholesterol is also a risk factor for developing coronary artery disease. If coronary artery disease is suspected, you may have tests to determine the diagnosis. The most common initial tests are electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG), chest X-ray, routine blood tests, and exercise electrocardiogram, also called a "stress test."

Core Needle Biopsy

During a core needle biopsy,  a large needle is guided into a lump or suspicious area to remove a small cylinder of tissue (also called a core). No incision is necessary.

Breast Ultrasound (Breast Sonogram)

Breast ultrasound is a noninvasive (the skin is not pierced) procedure used to assess the breasts and look for tumors. Ultrasound technology allows quick visualization of the breast tissue. Ultrasound may also be used to assess blood flow to areas inside the breasts. The examination is often used along with mammography.

Breast Care Center

The Breast Care Center strives to increase awareness about breast cancer through education and early detection. The Breast Care Center also offers breast health programs to the community and businesses free of charge.

Arterial Doppler Study

The Arterial Doppler ultrasound uses sound waves at a frequency that is higher than humans are able to hear to produce images on a monitor for the purpose of evaluating the arterial blood flow to the upper extremities (arms) and lower extremities (legs).

Peripherally Inserted Central Catheters (PICC Lines)

Provides access to the blood stream for administration of medications, chemotherapy and/or blood products, and for taking blood samples. It is inserted in a large vein in the arm, and extends from there to the large vessels in the chest. It may stay in for weeks or months.

Nuclear Medicine

A branch of medicine and medical imaging that uses the nuclear properties of matter in diagnosis and therapy. More specifically, nuclear medicine is a part of molecular imaging because it produces images that reflect biological processes that take place at the cellular and subcellular level.

Ultrasound Densitometry

This measures bone in the heel, shinbone or kneecap. It is also used as a screening tool and while not as precise as absorptiometry techniques, it is still effective, inexpensive, portable and uses no radiation. This technique is primarily used as a screening tool to predict fracture risk.

Transvaginal Ultrasound

Transvaginal ultrasound (also called ultrasonography) is an ultrasound test using a small instrument, called a transducer, that is placed in the vagina.

Bone Density Testing (DEXA Scan)

A bone density test, or DEXA Scan,  is a noninvasive, evaluation procedure that uses x-rays to measure bone mass or the weight of the skeleton. The amount of bone in the skeleton determines how strong it is. Bone densitometry is often used to measure bone mass in the spine, hips and arms, as these are the areas most likely to fracture when bone mass is low.

ERCP Diagnostic Test

ERCP is a specialized technique used to study the ducts of the gallbladder, pancreas, and liver. Your physician will insert a thin tube called an endoscope through the mouth, esophagus, and stomach into the first part of the small intestine. Once the ducts are identified, a catheter is passed through the endoscope and contrast dye is injected gently into the ducts and x-ray films are taken.

Upper GI (Barium Swallow)

An upper GI (gastrointestinal) series (also called a barium swallow) is a diagnostic test that examines the organs of the upper part of the digestive system: the esophagus, stomach and duodenum (the first section of the small intestine). A fluid called barium (a metallic, chemical, chalky liquid used to coat the inside of organs so that they will show up on an x-ray) is swallowed. X-rays are then taken to evaluate the digestive organs.

Coronary CT Angiography

Coronary CT Angiography uses a 64-slice CT scanner to produce detailed pictures of the heart in a few seconds and provide sharp, clear, three-dimensional images.

The 64-slice scanner allows doctors to evaluate the most common causes of acute chest pain with a single scan. It may also permit some patients to avoid surgical procedures, such as cardiac catheterization.

Radioisotope Management

Radioisotopes can be used in imaging tests or as a treatment for cancer, such as in brachytherapy. 

Mammosite Breast Cancer Treatment

After the surgeon removes a breast tumor, an uninflated MammoSite balloon is gently placed inside the tumor cavity through a small incision. A portion of the catheter will remain outside of the breast. The MammoSite balloon can be placed either during your lumpectomy surgery or up to 10 weeks after surgery in a separate procedure. Through this balloon, radiation can be given more quickly.

Digital Mammography

The latest advancement in the early detection of breast cancer, new digital capabilities will enable the technologist to immediately view mammogram images on the screen, thereby reducing the amount of time spent in the imaging suite and the need for retakes.

Computer Assisted Diagnosis for Mammograms

Computer-assisted diagnosis of digitized mammograms uses computers to analyze mammogram images, and may improve detection and interpretation of microcalcifications and other structural changes within breast tissue.

Screening Mammogram

A screening mammogram is an x-ray of the breast used to detect breast changes in women who have no signs of breast cancer.

Diagnostic Mammogram

A diagnostic mammogram is an x-ray of the breast used to diagnose unusual breast changes, such as a lump, pain, nipple thickening or discharge, or a change in breast size or shape. A diagnostic mammogram is also used to evaluate abnormalities detected on a screening mammogram. It is a basic medical tool and is appropriate in the workup of breast changes, regardless of a woman's age.

X-ray

An x-ray is a diagnostic test which uses invisible electromagnetic energy beams to produce images of internal tissues, bones and organs onto film.

Biopsy

A biopsy is a procedure in which tissue samples are removed (with a needle or during surgery) from the body for examination under a microscope; to determine if cancer or other abnormal cells are present.