CT Scan
Computed tomography, CT is an advanced form of X-ray imaging that uses a computer to combine many X-rays into one detailed image that provides information on bones and soft tissues.
High-Resolution Reconstructed Images – As you pass through the ring of the CT scanner, it rotates around your body and uses X-rays to take images. A computer combines the data and reconstructs them into high-resolution detailed images of the bones and soft tissue. The body part is reconstructed in slices which allows the radiologist to scroll through them one at a time to look at fine details. This allows them to make diagnoses such as identifying fractures, detecting cancer, and localize infection.
Short Scan Time – One of the advantages of CT is how quickly it creates high levels of detail. Most scans are less than sixty seconds in length. Our exams use a 64–slice scanner, which means the exam is quicker, produces high-quality images, and comes with advanced technology that automatically minimizes radiation dose.
MRI
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an imaging exam that provides detailed images of structures inside your body to help your doctor diagnose disease or injury. MRI does not use ionizing radiation.
Magnetic Fields – MRI uses a strong magnetic field and radio frequency waves to create detailed images of structures inside your body. The signals produced during the exam are interpreted by a computer and converted into highly detailed images for your radiologist to review.
High-Resolution Images – MRI creates detailed anatomic images, particularly of soft tissues. MRI can be used to evaluate many areas of the body and is frequently performed to examine the brain, spine, joints, and abdominal organs such as the liver.
Large-Bore MRI – A large-bore MRI uses the same advanced MRI technology with a wider opening designed to provide additional space and comfort during the exam. The larger opening may be especially helpful for patients who experience claustrophobia or need more room during imaging.
Ultrasound
Ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of organs, blood vessels, and other structures inside the body. Because ultrasound does not use ionizing radiation, it can be used for many types of imaging exams, including imaging during pregnancy.
High-Frequency Sound Waves – Ultrasound uses a small device called a transducer to send high-frequency sound waves into the area being examined. The transducer also receives the sound waves as they bounce back. The ultrasound machine interprets these echoes to create images of internal organs and tissues. Because ultrasound images are produced in real time, they can also be used to evaluate movement and blood flow.
Doppler Ultrasound – Doppler ultrasound evaluates changes in sound waves caused by movement, allowing blood flow through veins and arteries to be assessed. Doppler ultrasound may also be used during pregnancy to evaluate fetal blood flow and heart rate.
X-Ray
X-rays are a quick, noninvasive way for you and your health care provider to see structures inside your body. They can help identify conditions such as broken bones, foreign objects, and certain diseases.
Dense and Soft Tissue – X-rays use a small amount of radiation to create images of the body. Denser structures, such as bones, absorb more radiation than softer tissues. A digital X-ray detector captures the X-rays that pass through the body to create an image that can show abnormalities such as fractures, foreign objects, and pneumonia.
Fluoroscopy
While standard X-rays produce still images, fluoroscopy provides real-time X-ray imaging. At Bellingham Advanced Medical Imaging, fluoroscopy is primarily used to guide contrast injections for certain MRI and CT exams, including arthrography.
DEXA Scan
Bone Densitometry – Bone densitometry, also called dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA or DXA), uses a very small amount of ionizing radiation to measure bone density, most commonly in the lower spine and hips. DEXA scans are commonly used to diagnose osteoporosis and assess an individual’s risk of osteoporotic fractures. The exam is quick and noninvasive.
A DEXA exam requires little preparation. Tell your doctor and technologist if there is a possibility you are pregnant or if you recently had a barium exam, CT scan with contrast, or radioisotope scan. Leave jewelry at home and wear loose, comfortable clothing. You may be asked to wear a gown. Please follow any preparation instructions provided to you before your exam.
Arthrography
Arthrography is a specialized imaging procedure that helps your health care provider evaluate joint pain, injuries, and abnormalities. By injecting contrast material directly into a joint using imaging guidance, an arthrogram provides a clearer view of cartilage, ligaments, tendons, and other structures that may be difficult to assess with standard imaging alone.
Detailed Joint Imaging – Arthrograms are commonly performed in combination with MRI or CT scans to produce detailed images of the joint’s internal structures. This technique can help identify cartilage tears, ligament injuries, joint instability, and other abnormalities that may contribute to pain or limited mobility.
Commonly Examined Joints – Arthrograms are frequently used to evaluate the shoulder and hip, but may also be performed on the knee, wrist, elbow, or ankle. Your health care provider will determine whether an arthrogram is appropriate based on your symptoms and medical history.
