Watch Radiologist
William Mehard, MD, Explain Why Your Doctor May Order Imaging TestsWatch Julia Lagow, DO, Obstetrics and Gynecology Specialist, Explain Why Vaginal Ultrasounds are Necessary.Recipe: Cocoa Low-Fat Muffins
The Fundamentals of Medical Imaging
Understand the types of imaging modalities commonly used for diagnosing and treating disease
Confused about X-ray, CT, MRI OR Ultrasound orders your receive from your doctor? Outpatient imaging is an accurate, convenient way for doctors to evaluate what's wrong or determine the best course of treatment for specific illnesses.
X-Ray, Digital X-Ray
DESCRIPTION uses radiation to create a picture. Bone appears white; soft tissue appears gray; surrounding space (air) appears black. In some cases, the use of contrast dyes may be used to allow a radiologist to see anatomical structures more clearly.
WHAT TO EXPECT no preparation needed for general X-rays. Physicians may request several X-rays to get a clear idea of what is wrong. Contrast
dyes may be given by mouth or by injection.
RISK FACTORS AND SIDE EFFECTS if you are pregnant, inform your technologist to avoid unnecessary exposure to the developing baby. Contrast dyes are risky for those with adverse dye reactions, poor kidney function or who have diabetes, asthma, heart disease or other chronic illness. Certain medications must not be taken at least 48 hours prior to testing.
Ultrasound, Vaginal Ultrasound
DESCRIPTION uses sound waves that pass through the body to create images. Images can show real-time movement such as a developing baby, blood flow or soft tissue. useful for kidneys, liver, gall bladder, abdomen and pelvis scans, as well as blood flow studies.
WHAT TO EXPECT A gel is placed on the site to be imaged. A probe is then moved through the gel to obtain images. Vaginal ultrasound uses a probe inserted into the vagina to view ovaries and the pelvic region. You may be asked to avoid eating the night before or come with a full bladder prior to scanning.
RISK FACTORS AND SIDE EFFECTS no adverse health effects.
CAT, or CT Scan (Computed Axial Tomography)
DESCRIPTION uses X-rays combined with computers to give multiple clear, thin “slices” or images of particular body parts. These images can be formatted to change the horizontal or vertical perspective of the images. It’s particularly useful to detect internal injuries or highlight bone tumors, blood clots or infections, as well as heart disease. CT scans are differentiated by the number of “slices” that are produced (e.g., 4-slice, 16-slice, etc.). For the overwhelming majority of cases, 16-slice scanners are highly accurate.
WHAT TO EXPECT you may be asked to change into a medical gown, depending upon the type of scan. As with X-rays, contrast dyes may be used to enhance CT images.
RISK FACTORS AND SIDE EFFECTS tell your technician if you are pregnant. See risk factors for contrast dyes under X-ray/digital X-ray.
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
DESCRIPTION all MRIs use a powerful magnetic field and radio waves to produce images that are clearer than a CT scan. An MRI is very effective for evaluating neurological conditions, circulation or heart problems, and muscle or joint disorders. There are two types of MRIs. Bore or “closed” MRIs have a narrow opening into which a patient is placed. Open MRIs have no sides, avoiding the claustrophobic feeling that sometimes occurs with bore MRIs.
WHAT TO EXPECT remove all metal objects and jewelry, and place it in a personal locker. depending on the type of scan, you may be asked to change into a medical gown.
RISK FACTORS AND SIDE EFFECTS because of the powerful magnets, patients with certain implantable devices can’t have an MRI. These include, among others, pacemakers, aneurysm clips and Cochlear implants.
Mammography, Digital Mammography
DESCRIPTION uses a type of X-ray radiation to create specific images of the breast.
WHAT TO EXPECT you will be asked to wear a hospital gown and disrobe to expose one breast at a time during imaging. Female technicians will compress the breast tissue between imaging plates.
RISK FACTORS AND SIDE EFFECTS you may experience discomfort from the compression of breast tissue during imaging.
For information, please call our Health Access Line at 314-ANTHONY (268-4669) or 800-554-9550
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