Diagnostic Services
Computerized Tomography (CT)
Computerized tomography, also known as CT or CAT scanning, uses a special machine to obtain multiple x-ray images of any part of the body. The images are much more detailed than those provided by conventional x-rays. In addition, CT can display many different types of tissue including blood vessels. Modern scanners use a technique called spiral or helical CT to obtain images from many angles. Computerized processing of these images creates cross-sections, or slices, of the area of interest. The images can then be examined on a computer monitor or printed out. For more detailed information, click here.
St. Mary’s Medical Center and St. Mary's Jefferson Memorial Hospital have the 64-slice Volume Computed Tomography (VCT) Imaging System that greatly improves the information doctors need to treat life-threatening illnesses such as stroke and chest pain. Click here for more information on this break-through technology.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses radiofrequency waves and a strong magnetic field rather than x-rays to provide remarkably clear and detailed pictures of internal organs and tissues. The technique has proven very valuable for the diagnosis of a broad range of pathologic conditions in all parts of the body, including cancer, heart and vascular disease, stroke, and joint and musculoskeletal disorders. MRI requires specialized equipment and expertise and allows evaluation of some body structures that may not be as visible with other imaging methods. For more detailed information, click here.
Click here for more information on Breast MRI now available at
St. Mary's North Women's, Imaging and Cancer Centers.
Mammography
Mammography is a specific type of imaging that uses a low-dose x-ray system for examination of the breasts. The images of the breasts can be viewed on film at a view box or as soft copy on a digital mammography work station. Most medical experts agree that successful treatment of breast cancer often is linked to early diagnosis. Mammography plays a central part in early detection of breast cancers because it can show changes in the breast up to two years before a patient or physician can feel them. Current guidelines from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the American Cancer Society (ACS), the American Medical Association (AMA) and the American College of Radiology (ACR) recommend screening mammography every year for women, beginning at age 40. For more detailed information, click here.
New at St. Mary's North is state-of-the-art digital mammography that produces a three-dimensional computer image and is proven to have more accurate screenings.
Nuclear Medicine
Nuclear medicine is a subspecialty within the field of radiology. It comprises diagnostic examinations that result in images of body anatomy and function. The images are developed based on the detection of energy emitted from a radioactive substance given to the patient, either intravenously or by mouth. Generally, radiation to the patient is similar to that resulting from standard x-ray examinations. For more detailed information, click here.
Position Emission Tomography (PET)
PET (or positron emission tomography) is a medical imaging tool which assists physicians in detecting disease. Simply stated, PET scans produce digital pictures that can, in many cases, identify many forms of cancer, damaged heart tissue, and brain disorders such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and epilepsy. Technically, PET is a medical imaging technology that images the biology of disorders at the molecular level before anatomical changes are visible. For more detailed information,
Radiology
The study of images of the human body, Radiology is both ionizing radiation such as X-rays and nonionizing radiation such as ultrasound, and of how it can be applied to the diagnosis and treatment of disease. For more detailed information, click here.
Special Procedures
Special Procedures is a subspecialty of the Imaging Department in which both vascular and non-vascular procedures are performed. There are two suites with one suite utilizing the newest state-of-the-art Siemens Bi-plane Angio equipment best utilized for neurodiagnostic procedures and intervention. A variety of diagnostic and interventional procedures are performed with local anesthesia and moderate sedation to promote patient comfort and sedation during the procedure. An interventional radiologist is trained in percutaneous access, diagnosis, and intervention and has the clinical skills to integrate these procedures in the care of the patient. For more detailed information, click here.
Ultrasound
Ultrasound imaging, also called ultrasound scanning or sonography, is a method of obtaining images from inside the human body through the use of high frequency sound waves. The reflected sound wave echoes are recorded and displayed as a real-time visual image. No ionizing radiation (x-ray) is involved in ultrasound imaging. Ultrasound is a useful way of examining many of the body's internal organs, including the heart, liver, gallbladder, spleen, pancreas, kidneys and bladder. Because ultrasound images are captured in real-time, they can show movement of internal tissues and organs, and enable physicians to see blood flow and heart valve functions. This can help to diagnose a variety of heart conditions and to assess damage after a heart attack or other illness. For more detailed information, click here. |
