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Bone Density (DEXA)
Bone Density (DEXA)
Why Test Your Bone Density?
Did you know 44 million Americans suffer from osteoporosis and millions more have low bone density? Bones that lose density become porous, weak and fragile. Without treatment, osteoporosis can silently advance, making bones brittle and more prone to fracture and break. By diagnosing osteoporosis in the early stages, your healthcare provider can start treatment and a prevention plan. A Bone Densitometry (DEXA) test is the best diagnostic tool for early detection of osteoporosis and bone loss. Check your insurance as many carriers allow you to self-refer once you are over the age of 35.
During the exam
This non-invasive, quick test requires an outfit free of metal or we will provide you with a hospital gown in our changing rooms. A certified technologist will ask you to lie down on an exam table. It is important that you remain as still as possible while your images are acquired for the best possible image quality.
After the exam
A board-certified radiologist will interpret your results and provide a formal report to your healthcare provider. Your doctor may then form a treatment plan based on the results of this exam. When repeated over time, this test can help track the increase or decrease of bone mass to better assist your healthcare provider in a long-term plan.
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CT Scan
CT Scan
Computed Tomography (CT), sometimes called a CAT Scan, uses special x-ray equipment to obtain imaging from different angles. A computer will compile the many images taken and, using cutting edge technology, piece together cross-sections of tissues and organs.
What to Expect?
Your preparation will be different depending on the part of the body being imaged. The technologist may ask you to drink contrast material or water. This allows the radiologist to better see specific organs. The technologist may also inject contrast material to enhance the images and to accentuate the appearance between normal and abnormal tissue. Kidney function will be evaluated with lab testing prior to the exam for patients with certain conditions Previous bloodwork may be required for patients with certain conditions. This will first be discussed and determined with you and your healthcare provider prior to your appointment.
Contraindications
If prior tests have resulted in an allergic reaction to iodinated contrast, please advise your scheduler. Let us know at the time of scheduling if you are or think you might be pregnant or if you are nursing.
During the Exam
One of our certified technologists will ensure you are comfortable and in the correct position. The table will move through the circular structure that looks like a donut, called the gantry, which contains the x-ray source. The actual scanning takes only a few minutes, during which you may hear clicking and other noises. The technologist, stationed in a separate room but able to see you, is present throughout the process and able to communicate with you via intercom.
After the Exam
You are free to leave and carry on with your normal activities. A board-certified radiologist will interpret your results and provide a formal report to your healthcare provider.
CT HeartScreen
Why Test Your Coronary Arteries?
Coronary Artery Disease is the number one cause of death in both men and women in the United States. This disease is usually caused by plaque deposits that build up and decrease the flow of blood to the heart muscle. There are two types of plaque buildup in the coronary arteries; soft plaque and calcified plaque. The Heart Screen (also known as a coronary calcium score) is an effective screening tool for the early identification of calcified plaque. A high score will give your medical provider guidance for treatment and prevention that could include a change in diet, exercise, and medication.
During the Exam
A certified technologist will have you lie on your back and attach three small electrodes to your chest to record an EKG (electrocardiograph). This coordinates the CT images so the scanner captures them between heartbeats, when the heart is at rest. The table will move through a circular structure that looks like a donut (called the gantry) which contains the x-ray source. The actual scanning takes only a few minutes. The technologist, stationed in a separate room but able to see you, is present throughout the process and is able to communicate with you via intercom.
After the Exam
You are free to leave and carry on with your normal activities. A board-certified radiologist will interpret your results and provide a formal report to your healthcare provider.
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Fluoroscopy
Fluoroscopy
What is Fluoroscopy?
Radiologists use Fluoroscopy to obtain "live" X-Ray images of many body systems, including bones and joints, as well as solid organs such as the kidneys, urinary tract, bladder, lower digestive tract, and small and large intestines. Often the radiologist will use a contrast agent to outline other structures. Because the x-ray images are "live", the technologist is able to capture motion, creating an x-ray "movie".
What Are Some Common Fluoroscopic Procedures?
- Barium Enema
- Upper GI Series
- Image-guided anesthetic or contrast injections into joints or the spine
- Hysterosalpingography
- Video Swallows
What to Expect?
A PENRAD Imaging scheduler will give you instructions specific to your exam at the point of scheduling. Some fluoroscopy studies require a contrast agent, which the technologist will explain in detail. During your exam, for the best quality images, it is ideal for you to be as still as possible. The technologist will be with you for the duration of the procedure to make you comfortable and answer any questions you may have.
After the Exam
Once the test is completed, you are free to carry on with your normal activities. A board-certified radiologist will interpret your results and provide a formal report to your healthcare provider.
Fluoroscopy LocationsRequest a Call
Mammography
Mammography
Why Have a Mammogram?
According to the American Cancer Society, one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer during their lifetime. If diagnosed in the earliest stage, however, nearly 100% of breast cancer patients survive with appropriate treatment. Both the American Cancer Society and the American College of Radiology (ACR) recommend low-dose mammography as the diagnostic tool of choice for detecting breast cancer. Technologists at PENRAD Imaging are American Registry of Radiographic Technologists (ARRT) - certified in mammography. In addition, our equipment is certified by the FDA and accredited by the ACR. Our Board-Certified Radiologists will interpret your images to give you the best possible chance of early detection.
3D Mammography
PENRAD Imaging provides 3D mammography (sometimes referred to as Tomosynthesis) which produces a series of slices at various angles, which may then reduce the need for additional images. Although 3D mammography does deliver a bit more radiation than traditional mammography, it falls well within FDA-approved limits. 3D mammography is provided our Audubon Medical Campus, Broadmoor area clinic, Sisters Grove Pavilion, and Tri-Lakes area clinic locations.
What to Expect
To prepare for your mammogram, dress in a two-piece outfit. Do not apply powders, deodorants or creams on your underarms or breasts as these can interfere with the image quality. Do not schedule your mammogram for the week before your period; the best time for a mammogram is one week following your period.
During the Exam
During the brief periods of compression, the technologist will ask you to stay very still to ensure clear images. She will then review your images for quality and positioning, as well as perform any additional imaging needed prior to the end of the exam.
After the Exam
A board-certified radiologist will interpret your mammogram and provide a formal report to your referring healthcare provider on file. Your doctor will then discuss the results with you. In addition, the federal government requires every mammography facility to mail a written summary of the mammography report in lay terms directly to the patient. This will be mailed to you within 30 days of your screening mammogram. If the radiologist detects any areas of concern, a representative from PENRAD Imaging will also contact you and your physician to schedule additional diagnostic studies. Please do not hesitate to contact us or check with your healthcare provider for additional information.
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MRI
MRI
MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) uses a combination of magnetism, radio waves and computer processing to create detailed images of nearly every body part, including bones, joints, organs and tiny blood vessels. Unlike imaging techniques that use X-ray, with MRI, there's no exposure to radiation. It is among the safest and most versatile of imaging methods. Since its introduction for medical purposes in the 1970s, advances in MRI technology have greatly improved image quality, speed and convenience for patients, while giving physicians a safe and versatile tool for screening, diagnosing, surgical planning, treatment and reconstruction.
Physicians typically prescribe MRI testing at PENRAD Imaging to diagnose or treat the following:
- Cysts, tumors and cancer throughout the body
- Blockages or enlargement of blood vessels and certain heart problems
- Diseases of the liver, gallbladder, pancreas and other abdominal organs
- Abnormalities and diseases of the reproductive organs, including the causes of infertility, in both women and men
- Orthopedic injuries or disorders
Using MR images taken by PENRAD Imaging, physicians can locate and identify:
- Causes of pain
- Degenerative disorders (arthritis, deterioration of joint surfaces)
- Fractures not visible with use of X-ray
- Herniated discs
- Swelling or bleeding in the tissues in and around joints and bones
- Small tears and injuries to tendons, ligaments, and muscles
- Spinal cord trauma
Types of MRI
3T MRI
The 3T MRI is one of the most powerful and sophisticated MRI scanners currently available. The "T" in 3T MRI stands for Tesla, the unit of measurement of magnetic field strength. 3T systems generate a magnetic field twice as strong as traditional MRI scanners and many times the strength of some open MRI systems. The 3T's stronger magnetic field produces images of exceptional clarity and anatomical detail.
Wide Bore MRI
For those patients who are claustrophobic or unable to tolerate the physical restrictions of a traditional MRI scanner, PENRAD Imaging offers the option of a wide-bore system. The bore refers to the opening of the MRI scanner; the wide-bore scanner is more spacious than a traditional scanner.
Breast MRI
The advanced technology of MRI gives radiologists the ability to distinguish cancerous tumors from other types of soft tissue. This makes MRI particularly valuable in the fight against breast cancer. However, despite its sensitivity, Breast MRI is most effective when used to supplement, not replace, standard cancer screening methods, such as mammography. Used in combination with these other imaging techniques, physicians can make a more complete and accurate assessment of the nature and extent of cancer and other breast diseases.
Reasons physicians prescribe Breast MRI
- To identify breast cancer early in high-risk patients and in women with dense breast tissue
- To confirm, reject or clarify the findings of a mammogram or ultrasound exam
- To plan treatment or surgery
- To assess the effectiveness of treatment
- To check the condition of breast implants
MRA
Magnetic resonance angiogram (MRA) is a type of magnetic resonance imaging that can help determine the health of your blood vessels, most commonly in the neck, brain, chest, kidneys and legs. MRA can help diagnose blockages, aneurysms (bulges), tears, and narrowing of the arteries and blood vessels.
What to Expect
Most MRI examinations do not require specific preparation, but include certain general precautions. When you schedule your exam, let us know if you are claustrophobic so we can make appropriate arrangements. Remove loose, foreign or metal objects prior to the exam (such as jewelry, dentures, watches, credit cards, body piercing rings, hair pins, and trans-dermal patches). Continue taking prescribed medications. You will be asked to change into a hospital gown free of any metal. Your hair should be dry and free of wet styling gel. If the exam involves the head or neck, you may be asked to remove eye makeup. You must let the technologist know if you are or think you might be pregnant or if you are nursing. Previous bloodwork may be required for patients with certain conditions. This will first be discussed and determined with you and your healthcare provider prior to your appointment.
You will be positioned on a special table that slides into the MRI system. The technologist will perform the MRI scan from a control unit in an adjoining room, communicating with you by means of an intercom; music or earplugs will be supplied for your comfort. The actual scanning can take anywhere from 15 to 90 minutes depending on the scan(s) ordered, during which you will hear clicks, hammering sounds and other noises. Those sounds are normal.
After the exam
You are free to leave and carry on with your normal activities. A board-certified radiologist will interpret your results and provide a formal report to your healthcare provider.
MRI LocationsRequest a Call
Nuclear Medicine
Nuclear Medicine
With the aid of radiopharmaceuticals, images are captured based on the detection of energy emitted from the radioactive substance previously given to the patient orally or intravenously. The camera then detects gamma rays emitted from the patient and sends the digitized images to a computer for reconstruction.
What to Expect?
Each Nuclear Medicine procedure is different. Our scheduling department will advise you of any necessary preparation for your exam, as well as the duration of the exam. The exam may require multiple appointments within the same day or even over two-days' time. The duration of these appointments may vary. Let us know at the time of scheduling if you are or think you might be pregnant or if you are nursing.
During the Exam
Nuclear Medicine procedures require you to lie on a scanning table and remain as still as possible. The technologist will raise, lower and move the exam table in and out of the scanner in order to take pictures of the body. The scanner does not touch the patient. The actual scan time will vary depending on the exam. The technologist, stationed in a separate room but able to see you, is present throughout the entire process and is able to communicate with you via intercom.
After the Exam
Once the test is completed, you are free to leave and carry on with your normal activities. The low-level radiopharmaceutical will soon pass out of your body through natural processes. A board-certified radiologist will interpret your results and provide a formal report to your healthcare provider.
Nuclear Medicine LocationsRequest a Call
PET Scan
PET Scan
Positron Emission Tomography (PET) uses small amounts of radioactive materials (called tracers) to evaluate organ and tissue function. Often performed in conjunction with CT, the energy given off by the PET tracers is detected by the PET scanner, which creates images of your body.
What to Expect
Your preparation will be different depending on the area of the body to be imaged. Contrast material may be administered intravenously or by ingestion, depending on the exam ordered by your physician. Bloodwork may be required for patients with certain conditions, but this will be discussed with you and your healthcare provider prior to your appointment.
Contraindications
If you have experienced an allergic reaction to iodine contrast in the past, please advise your scheduler. Let us know at the time of scheduling if you are or think you might be pregnant or if you are nursing.
During the Exam
One of our certified technologists will position you on the scanner, ensuring you are comfortable and in the correct position. The table will move through the circular structure that looks like a donut (called the gantry). The actual scan time will vary depending on the exam and will be communicated to you. The technologist, stationed in a separate room but able to see you, is present throughout the entire process and will communicate with you via intercom.
After the Exam
You are free to leave and carry on with your normal activities. If you were given a contrast agent prior to the exam, you may be instructed to wait for observation to ensure that you don't have a delayed reaction to the contrast. A board-certified radiologist will interpret your results and provide a formal report to your healthcare provider.
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Ultrasound
Ultrasound
Ultrasound (also known as sonography) is a diagnostic tool using high-frequency sound waves to create images. Ultrasound is an excellent diagnostic tool to evaluate tissues, organs, and vasculature. Ultrasound cannot evaluate bone or structures that contain air. Therefore, lungs, GI tract, small bowel, and colon are not evaluated.
What to Expect
Unless instructed otherwise, many ultrasounds do not require special preparation. However, if the ultrasound is ordered to examine your abdomen and pelvic region, you may be asked to fast prior to the exam, and/or arrive at your appointment with a full bladder.
During the Exam
Our ARDMS-certified sonographer will ask you to lie on the examination table next to the ultrasound equipment. The sonographer will apply a clear water-soluble gel to the part of the body to be examined. After applying the gel, the sonographer will guide the transducer – a hand-held instrument – across your skin. The images will appear on the ultrasound monitor. Exams are typically 15-60 minutes, depending on the exam type.
After the Exam
Upon completion, the sonographer may ask you to remain in the department while reviewing the ultrasound pictures. The radiologist may also order additional images. Once the test is complete, you are free to leave and carry on with your normal activities. A board-certified radiologist will interpret your results and provide a formal report to your healthcare provider.
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X-ray
X-ray
Why Is An X-ray Performed?
- Determine if a bone is fractured or a joint is dislocated
- Ensure that a fracture is well aligned, stable and healing properly
- Determine the presence of a fluid build up in a joint or around bone
- Evaluate for pneumonia or asthma
- Evaluate injury or damage from infection, disease, bone changes or to locate foreign objects
- Find the cause of pain, numbness or weakness
After the exam you are free to leave and carry on with your normal activities. A board-certified radiologist will interpret your results and provide a formal report to your healthcare provider.
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