Imaging Services Definitions
This type of imaging test uses low-dose X-rays to scan the lower back, hip or forearm to measure bone mineral density and bone loss. It helps diagnose osteoporosis, a disease that weakens bones and makes them more brittle and susceptible to fracture. It can also help predict your risk of future fractures.
Brookwood is the first in the State to offer the breast CT scan - a new technology for detecting breast cancer in women. Benefits of a breast CT are no compression, a quick scan and a full 3D image. The breast CT may be suggested for women with a history of dense breast tissue or those who meet other requirements. Try a new pain free way for breast imaging. Call 205-877-2254 for more info or ask your doctor if the breast CT is right for you.
This imaging test combines X-rays and computer scans to create cross sectional images of the body. The result are a detailed images that can show anomalies with soft tissues, organs and bones. CT machines can produce CTA studies (angiography) of the aorta and pulmonary arteries. It can also help your doctor diagnose bone fractures, muscle disorders and infections as well as locate tumors and masses.
This imaging test provides three-dimensional images of the body’s interior using strong magnets and radio waves. This scan is notable for its ability to provide greater spatial resolution of images. MRIs help detect cysts, tumors, joint abnormalities, certain heart problems, internal organ diseases, breast cancer and other anomalies in the body.
Nuclear medicine scans use a special camera and radioactive substances to see functions and structures inside the body. They help doctors diagnose and evaluate a multitude of diseases such as heart disease, gastrointestinal/endocrine/neurological disorders and certain types of cancer.
PET/CT scan combines positron emission tomography (PET) with computed tomography (CT) into one machine. From one single PET/CT scan, your doctor will have information about the structure and function of cells and tissues in your body. Since this diagnostic test is conducted on the cellular level, it can often identify changes that signify early stages of disease. The most common uses of PET/CT scans are to detect and determine the spread of cancer, assess the effectiveness of cancer therapy and study brain abnormalities.
This scan uses a special dye that contains radioactive tracers. During the exam, these tracers will either be inhaled, swallowed or injected into a vein in your arm to map organs and tissue to see areas more clearly. PET scans are often used to detect heart problems, cancer and brain disorders.
Ultrasound technology uses sound waves to produced images of the body's interior. There are two types of ultrasound: diagnostic and pregnancy ultrasound. The former helps doctors gain information about body organs such as the heart, liver, kidneys, bladder, blood vessels and female reproductive organs. The latter helps doctors gather information about the health of a baby and the mother.
This type of imaging test uses a small amount of radiation to create images of bones and organs. X-rays are commonly used to detect blocked blood vessels, conditions affecting the lungs, digestive problems, enlarged heart, broken bones and fractures, infections, osteoporosis and tumors.
