NCH Diagnostic Imaging tests include:
(click on procedure name for more details):
* The ultrasound-guided liver biopsy video was produced by freehivinfo. The ultrasound-guided thyroid biopsy video was produced by SouthSound Radiology. Northwest Community Healthcare does not have affiliations with these organizations.
Bone Densitometry (DEXA)
What is Bone Densitometry?
Bone Densitometry (DEXA) is an examination that measures the condition and density of your bones to evaluate you for osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is the progressive thinning of the bones due to loss of calcium with the bone. This results in thin or weak bone that are at risk for fracture. Over 10 million Americans currently suffer from osteoporosis and researcher estimate that 50% of women over the age of 50 will suffer a fracture of the hip, wrist, or spine.
How it is performed
The patient will be positioned on a padded table with an x-ray generator below and a receiver above. You will be asked to remain as still as possible while on the exam table. Usually images of the Spine and Hip will be obtained.
How to prepare
Wear comfortable clothing and avoid clothes that have zippers or other metallic objects.
Computed Tomography (CT) Scan
What is a CT Scan?
A CT scan or sometimes called a CAT scan is a painless and a non-invasive medical test that helps physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions. CAT is an abbreviated name for computerized axial tomography which uses a very thin special X-ray beam to produce detailed, cross sectional views of the area being studied. The images can be examined on a computer or printed. CT imaging is often the preferred method of diagnosing causes of pain and many different forms of cancer. CT imaging of the internal organs, bone, blood vessels and soft tissue can provide greater clarity than conventional x-ray exams.
In the emergent setting, CT imaging can quickly identify injuries to the internal organs. Many Emergency Rooms (including Northwest Community Hospital) have a dedicated CT scanner in the emergency room. CT imaging also plays a significant role in the detection, diagnosis and treatment of vascular diseases that can lead to stroke, kidney failure or even death.
How it is performed
A CT scan is performed with the patient lying on a comfortable patient table, which will then move you through the opening of the CT scanner called the gantry. While the first CT units had a narrow gantry, modern day units have a wide opening to provide for patient comfort and reduce the risk of claustrophobia. During the exam, you might be asked to perform basic breathing techniques such as holding your breath or taking a deep breath in. You will not feel the acquisition of CT images at all; you will only hear a low whirring noise. Depending on the examination, a contrast agent might be necessary. This might include oral contrast taken by mouth or intravenous contrast given by an IV catheter. Most people tolerate the contrast medium without any problems and merely feel flushed for a moment. Since the contrast medium contains iodine which may cause an allergic reaction in some people, you should consult with your physician regarding any existing allergies prior to the examination.
How to prepare
You should wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing for your CT exam. Metal objects can affect the image, so avoid clothing with zippers and snaps. You may also be asked to remove hairpins, jewelry, eyeglasses, hearing aids and any removable dental work, depending on the part of the body that is being scanned. You may be asked not to eat or drink anything for one or more hours before the exam. Women should always inform their doctor or X-ray technologist if there is any possibility that they are pregnant.
Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA)
What is Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA)?
Recent advances in the technology of CT scanners had led to the development of Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA). A CTA is a type of CT Scan that can visualize flow in the arteries and veins throughout the body. Examinations can be performed of the blood vessels of the brain, lung, kidneys, and legs.
The study is performed through a standard intravenous catheter placed in the body, usually in the elbow region. This administration of contrast material is a safer method than conventional angiography in which a catheter is inserted in an artery.
The latest in CT technology is performed at NCH using the Siemens SOMATOM Definition Dual Source CT System.
Digital Mammography
What is a mammogram?
A mammogram is an X-ray exam of the breast. It is used to detect and diagnose breast disease and often can detect a mass or lump before it can be felt. Mammography can also show small areas of calcifications in the breast tissue that may be early signs of cancer.
How it is performed
You will be positioned next to the mammography unit. The technologist will position the breast on a plastic plate. A second piece of plastic (compression device) is placed on top and, for a few seconds, will compress the breast tissue to get a good, clear picture. (This may produce temporary discomfort.) The image is taken as the technologist steps behind a protective window. The patient is asked to hold their breath for a few seconds while the X-ray is being taken. Two pictures of each breast are usually taken – one from above and one from the side. Occasionally, additional pictures may be necessary to evaluate of all of the breast tissue or to further evaluate a specific area of concern. The radiologist will review the mammography study and compare it with any of your previous mammograms, looking for subtle changes in breast tissue.
How to prepare
The day of your mammogram don't use any deodorant, powders or lotions under the arms. These substances can interfere with the images.
Digital X-ray
What is an X-ray?
X-rays are created by using an x-ray machine to pass a small amount of radiation a particular part of the body. As it passes through, the radiation is absorbed by the denser parts of the body and easily travels through less dense tissue. This image is captured on x-ray film placed on the other side of the body. The x-ray film, which looks like a photo negative, clearly indicates dark areas of less dense tissue and light areas of the most dense tissue, such as bone.
X-rays can help diagnose disease and injury to the body. Depending on which part of the body is being studied, an x-ray can take on different forms, with varying equipment and patient requirements. X-rays can be used to study the head, chest, digestive system, urinary system, as well as the bone and joints.
How it is performed
During an X-ray, a technologist carefully positions the part of your body being examined onto a special X-ray table. If necessary, the technologist may place a lead apron over certain other parts of your body to shield these parts from X-ray exposure. At this time, you will be asked to remain very still while the X-ray is focused onto the imaged area. The technician then steps behind a window while the image is being taken.
How to prepare
You should wear loose fitting clothing for the exam. The technologist might have you remove jewelry or other metallic objects from your body. Depending on the exam, you might be asked to change into a hospital gown.
Fluroscopy
What is Fluoroscopy?
Fluoroscopy, or a moving X-ray, is a specialized type of diagnostic x-ray that uses a continuous x-ray beam to evaluate the body and its organs in real time. Often, fluoroscopy procedures require the use of a contrast agent, such as barium or intravenous iodinated contrast. Common fluoroscopic exams include Upper or Lower GI’s, Esophagrams, or Cystograms.
How it is performed
Fluoroscopic exams are performed by examining a portion of your body under the fluoroscope or X-ray tube. After the patient is positioned on the X-ray table, oral contrast such as barium can be given by mouth and then followed through the intestines. Intravenous contrast can also be given to the patient to follow the flow of blood in the arteries and veins. Sometimes contrast can be placed into the bladder via a catheter to evaluate for a leak in the urinary system.
How to prepare
You should wear loose fitting clothing for the exam. The technologist might have you remove jewelry or other metallic objects from your body. Depending on the exam, you might be asked to change into a hospital gown.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Open MRI
What is an MRI scan?
MRI is an abbreviation for magnetic resonance imaging. This is an imaging examination that aids physicians in diagnosis and treating medical conditions. In contrast to more common imaging procedures such as X-Rays of CT scans that uses ionizing radiation, MRI uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to make images of the body. This allows for very detailed pictures of the bones, internal organs, and soft tissues of the body. MRI is widely used to diagnose sports-related injuries, especially those affecting the knee, shoulder, hip, elbow, and wrist. The images allow the physician to see even very small tears and injuries to ligaments and muscles.
How it is performed
Patients are positioned on a moveable exam table. Sometimes a coil might be placed on the portion of the body that is being examined. The exam table will then be moved into the MRI machine. The MRI technologist will go to an adjacent room where they can perform the tests while watching the patient through window. The patient and technologist will be able to communicate through a sound system at anytime.
Depending on the examination, a contrast agent might be necessary. If the patient’s particular procedure requires intravenous contrast, then the MRI technologist will insert an intravenous catheter into a vein in the hand or arm. Some particular orthopedic examinations require contrast to be placed into the joint. This is usually performed by the radiologist prior to the examination. While examination is being performed you’ll hear some humming and thumping sounds.
Once the exam is completed the technologist may ask the patient to wait while they check the images and determine if any additional pictures are required.
How to prepare
Patients should wear comfortable clothes that are easy to change as they may be asked to wear a gown for their procedure. You will also be asked to remove any jewelry, eyeglasses or metal objects.
Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA)
Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) is performed to visualize the blood vessels of the body. This noninvasive procedure can be used to diagnose and follow many different vascular conditions including aneurysms, atherosclerotic disease, and vascular malformations. An MRA exam is performed in a similar fashion as a conventional MRI exam is done. Some MRA exams are done with the use of contrast material and sometimes the exam will be done without the use of contrast material.
Nuclear Medicine
What is Nuclear Medicine?
Nuclear medicine involves the use of radioactive materials to help determine the cause of a medical problem based on the function of the organ, tissue, or bone. A variety of radioactive materials or “tracers” are used to help diagnose and treat diseases. While conventional radiography involves the use of an external form of radiation, nuclear medicine measures radiation emitting from the body following administration of the radioactive tracer. A special camera is used to detect the radiation and then create and image for the radiologist.
How it is performed
Images are produced by X-ray emissions from radioactive substances given to the patient, either intravenously or by mouth. During the exam, the patient will be positioned on a special table with a camera is placed over the body. Sometimes the camera will rotate around the patient and sometimes it will be placed in a fixed position.
PET/CT Scan
What is PET/CT Scan?
Positron Emission Tomography, also called a PET scan, is an examination that involves producing physiologic images based on the detection of radiation from the emission of positrons. Positrons are tiny particles emitted from a radioactive substance administered to the patient. The subsequent views of the human body developed by PET are used to evaluate a variety of diseases. Advance in technology have now combined PET imaging with CT imaging to provide accurate localization of abnormalities found with PET imaging.
How it is performed
You will be given the radioactive substance as an intravenous injection This radioactive substance is produced in a machine called a cyclotron and attached, or tagged, to a natural body compound, most commonly glucose. Once this substance is administered to the patient, the radioactivity localizes in the appropriate areas of the body and is detected by the PET scanner. The substance will then take approximately 30 to 60 minutes to travel through your body and be absorbed by the tissue under study. You will be asked to rest quietly in a partially darkened room and to avoid significant movement or talking, which may alter the localization of the administered substance. Following this you will be placed on the examination table for your scan. Scanning takes an additional 30 to 45 minutes.
How to prepare
You should wear comfortable and loose fitting clothing. Diabetics should ask for specific diet guideline to control glucose level during the day of the test.
Ultrasound
What is an ultrasound?
Ultrasound, or sonography, uses high frequency sound waves along with a computer to generate a picture of internal organs as they function. A hand-held transducer is placed over a body part, and a high frequency sound wave is emitted. The transducer then acts as a microphone to listen for the return signal. The difference in time between these two events is transformed into a moving image by a special computer. Doppler ultrasound works similar to the Doppler radar images you may have seen on television. It produces color images of blood flow through various vessels and organs, such as the heart (echocardiogram). During pregnancy, ultrasound is a key tool in checking a baby's health and development and is considered safe for mother and baby.
The most common body parts that can be evaluated by ultrasound are the abdomen, breasts, female pelvis, scrotum, thyroid and the vascular system. It is a useful tool in the diagnosis of such medical conditions as abdominal cancer, aortic aneurysm, gallstones, blood clots, and uterine and ovarian disease. Ultrasound is a common diagnostic procedure in which the patient will experience little or no discomfort. There are no known dangers or side effects related with ultrasound, because it does not require the use of radiation, special dyes or anesthesia.
How it is performed
The technologist will assist you onto the examination table. A gel-like substance is applied to the area of your body being imaged. The technologist uses a hand-held transducer (microphone-type device), moving it slowly across the body part being imaged. Sound waves pass harmlessly through the skin from the transducer. The sound waves bounce off certain organs and tissues in the body and create echoes. The echoes are analyzed by a computer, which creates a moving picture of these images on a television screen. You may be asked to hold your breath or change your body position in order to obtain the images that are needed.
How to prepare
You should wear loose fitting clothing. You might be asked to change into a gown prior to exam. Sometimes you might be asked to drink water prior to the study.
