When your doctor has to take a closer look at your body’s inner structures, they may ask you to undergo a diagnostic imaging test. Medical imaging machines use various technologies to provide a glimpse into your organs, bones, and tissues.
An X-ray is one of the oldest and most common medical imaging procedures. It sends radiation through the body, so that specialized film and a computer captures the resulting images. An X-ray is a first-line imaging test used to spot fractures, dislocations, misalignments, and joint problems. Technological advances have improved upon the traditional X-ray to produce even more detailed images of the body.
Here are some of the most common diagnostic X-ray procedures:
CAT/CT Scan
A computed tomography (CT) scan can detect subtle changes that might not be visible in a simple X-ray. It does this by combining several X-ray images from various angles around the body to create cross-sectional visualizations of the bones, blood vessels, and soft tissues inside you.
CT scans take no more than 30 minutes, making them ideal for emergencies where a patient may have sustained internal injuries or bleeding. A CT scan can determine the location of a tumor, infection, or blood clot. Doctors may also use this diagnostic imaging test to monitor cancer, heart disease, lung nodules, and liver masses, and help determine appropriate medical treatment.
Your doctor may recommend a CT scan if an MRI is not advisable for you. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans use magnetic fields instead of X-rays, so individuals with metal implants, pacemakers, and other implanted devices may be referred for a CT scan instead of an MRI.
Mammogram
A mammogram uses X-rays to examine breast tissue and detect any abnormal growths that might indicate breast cancer. Since breast cancer may or may not come with symptoms, experts recommend that women beginning at the age of 45 or 50 have a mammogram every year. If you have a personal or family history of breast disease, your doctor may advise you to begin getting these preventive screenings earlier.
Unlike film-based mammograms, digital mammography produces higher-resolution images on a computer. A computer-aided detection system draws attention to potential areas of concern like calcification, masses, or areas of abnormal density. This allows a radiologist to better analyze the images.
During a mammography, your breast is placed on a special plate, and images are taken, one breast at a time. The entire exam takes just 15 minutes or less to complete.
Bone Density Scan
A dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, or DEXA scan, is an advanced form of X-ray that measures bone mineral density. It can scan the entire body but is commonly performed on the lower spine and hips to check for osteoporosis. Since osteoporosis can cause progressive bone loss, a DEXA scan evaluates your body for signs of low bone mass. It also allows your providers to assess your fracture risk.
In addition to osteoporosis, individuals with medical conditions associated with bone loss such as rheumatoid arthritis and kidney or liver disease may be good candidates for a DEXA scan.
An X-ray generator and imaging device will measure your spine and hip density during a primary DEXA exam. The machine transmits low-dose X-rays over an area and generates images on a nearby monitor. Depending on your condition, you may have to go through additional peripheral tests. These are more straightforward and involve placing a hand or foot in a small device, which produces a bone density reading.
A DEXA scan is usually done on an outpatient basis and may last 10 to 30 minutes, depending on the body part being studied.
Diagnostic Imaging Services in Jacksonville, Florida
Diagnostic imaging technologies are powerful tools that offer a view inside your body without the need for invasive procedures. This allows your doctor to make an informed decision about your diagnosis and treatment.
If your doctor asks you to undergo a medical imaging test, visit the experts at Innovative Open MRI & Imaging today. We use state-of-the-art equipment in our X-ray, mammography, and DEXA bone density scans. We also take pride in offering the only open, weight-bearing, and flex-extension MRI in Florida, which uses superior technology to produce high-resolution images.
If you have any questions, call our Jacksonville office at (904) 268-1080 or our Pensacola location at (850) 433-0674. You can also fill out our online appointment request form. We look forward to serving you.
