Diagnostic radiology

X-Ray
X-ray is a well-established technology that uses minimal doses of radiation to capture images of bone and high density tissue in the body. An x-ray machine will be used to take an image of the area of interest inside your body (chest x-ray, abdominal x-ray, extremity/bone x-ray, etc.).

Specialized types of x-ray services provided include:
• Routine X-Rays (chest, abdomen, bones, orbital, etc.)
• Skeletal radiology

Ultrasound
Ultrasound is a safe procedure that uses soundwaves to produce an image. For the exam, a sonographer applies gel to the skin. This gel is necessary for producing high quality images. The sonographer then passes the transducer over the targeted area to view the images on a video monitor.

After you leave, your exam will be viewed and interpreted by a radiologist. The radiologist will contact your doctor with the results of your exam. Your doctor is the only person qualified to discuss your exam results with you.

Types of Ultrasound Exams

Abdominal or Gallbladder Ultrasounds
This exam can assess the gallbladders, liver, spleen, pancreas and kidneys. Before this exam, you must not eat or drink after midnight or a mimimum of 6 hours prior to the exam.

Kidney/Renal Ultrasounds
This exam assesses the kidneys. There is no preparation required for this exam.

Pelvic Ultrasound
This exam can evaluate a woman's uterus and ovaries. At times, a transvaginal exam will follow a pelvic exam if additional images are needed. This exam preparation is to drink 32 ounces of water an hour before your exam. Do not go to the bathroom until after your exam.

Obstetrical Ultrasound
This exam is used to evaluate the size and anatomy of a fetus as well as assess its growth during pregnacy. If you are having this exam prior to 18 weeks of pregnancy, you must drink 32 ounces of water before your exam. (Do not use the bathroom until after the exam). If you are having an ultrasound after 18 weeks, no preparation is required.

Small Parts Ultrasound
Thyroid exams assess the size of the thyroid gland (in your neck) to look for nodules. No prep is required.
Breast exams assess palpable area in the breast of an area of density seen on a mammogram. No preparation is required.

Scrotal exams assess size and blood flow of the testicles. It also looks for nodules. No preparation is necessary for this exam.