Diagnostic Imaging

radiology

Bone Densitometry

Osteoporosis is the primary reason for performing a bone density exam.  At WCH, the DEXA Bone Density machine is conveniently located in the Women’s Health Suite.  Results are interpreted by the radiologist and sent to the patient’s physician.

Computed Tomography  (CT)

An accurate diagnosis is key to any health concern, and having access to sophisticated medical technology is vital.  Our 64 slice Siemens Perspective CT scanner provides higher quality with greater confidence and convenience.  With CARE Dose4D we are able to provide quality images at a reduced dose to the patient.

The Siemens scanner has the power, speed and resolution to help diagnose abdominal disease.  It can aid in the detection of small lesions or provide a detailed evaluation of tumor extension.  Brain imaging can detect infarction (Stroke), tumors, hemorrhages and bone trauma.  Additionally, the system’s exclusive image post-processing solutions can dramatically assist in diagnosis of lung pathologies such as nodules, tumors and vascular lesions.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging  (MRI)

MRI imaging services are readily available at WCH.  State of the art equipment provides your provider with the best images possible.  We utilize a state of the art GE system.  MRI utilizes a powerful magnetic field to acquire images unlike CT which uses ionizing radiation. The good contrast it provides between the different soft tissues of the body makes it especially useful in diagnosing injuries and disease.

Digital Mammography

Diagnostic and screening mammography services are provided in our Women’s Health Suite.  The mammography service  is accredited by the American College of Radiology  (ACR).  All mammography studies are performed by Registered Mammography technologists.  Screening mammography exams can be performed without a physician’s order.  All diagnostic exams are scheduled and completed with a Breast Certified Radiologist available to view images.  All diagnostic Ultrasound exams are performed the same day as the mammography.  After completion of the diagnostic procedure, the patient is able to speak directly with the interpreting radiologist before leaving the facility.  We are also able to perform ultrasound guided breast biopsies.

Nuclear Medicine

Nuclear Medicine uses very small amounts of radioactive materials (radiopharmaceuticals) to diagnose and treat disease.  In imaging, the radiopharmaceuticals are detected by special types of cameras that work with computers to provide very precise pictures about the area of the body being imaged. Nuclear medicine differs from an x-ray, ultrasound or other diagnostic test because it determines the presence of disease based on biological changes rather than changes in anatomy.

PET CT

PET CT is utilized in Oncology to determine the location and extent of tumor growth and in Neurology to aid in the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, stroke, brain tumors and seizures.  PET CT combines the functional information from a Positron Emission Tomography (PET) exam with anatomical information from a Computed Tomography (CT) exam into one single exam.  A PET scan detects changes in cellular function-specifically, how your cells are utilizing nutrients like sugar and oxygen.  Since these functional changes take place before physical changes occur, PET can provide information that enables your provider to make an early diagnosis.

Radiography

Digital radiography imaging is available 24 hours a day.

Ultrasonography

Ultrasound is a diagnostic tool that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce dynamic visual images of organs, tissues or blood flow inside the body.  Sonography can be used to examine many parts of the body, such as the abdomen, breasts, female reproductive system, heart and blood vessels.  It is a noninvasive procedure that involves no radiation or magnetic fields. WCH uses a Siemans S-2000 machine for most imaging procedures.  For vascular imaging a Parks Flo-Lab machine is used.