Types of Diagnostic Imaging
When there’s a potential health problem, wanting answers as soon as possible is a natural response. Diagnostic Imaging is a great tool for your medical professional to use to detect issues sooner rather than later. There are several types of diagnostic imaging available today; each one used to visualize the internal structures of the body to assist doctors in diagnosis and treating various diseases and medical conditions.
Professional Radiology strives to provide patients with accurate and compassionate imaging services. If you’re looking for diagnostic imaging services in the El Paso region, contact us online or call (915) 225-2480 to schedule an appointment today.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
This type of diagnostic imaging, commonly known as MRI, uses powerful magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the internal body. It is often used to diagnose brain and spinal cord disorders, joint and musculoskeletal conditions, and cancer. An MRI can take anywhere from 30 minutes to one hour, so to provide all patients with the utmost comfort, we use a Hitachi Echelon Oval, a wide-open MRI, to limit discomfort in confined and dark spaces for optimal scans.
X-Rays
X-Rays are one of the most commonly and widely used diagnostic imaging techniques. It uses electromagnetic radiation to examine bone structures to diagnose bone fractures, joint dislocations, and lung conditions. Similarly, advancements in X-rays have been useful in identifying other ailments or diseases, such as pneumonia and specific cancers. Unlike MRIs, an X-Ray only requires a few minutes before the results are examined by a radiologist and sent to your primary care doctor.
Computed Tomography (CT)
Computed Tomography, commonly known as CT scans, is one of the best options for diagnostic imaging, whether it’s identifying minor injuries or serious medical conditions. CT scans provide clear, targeted images in a time-efficient manner, often taking between 10 to 30 minutes to complete. This type of imaging is commonly used to diagnose cancer and brain disorders as well as being used in areas such as the liver, chest, and spleen to spot abnormalities in the body.
Ultrasound
Ultrasounds are more than a prenatal test offered to pregnant women; they can also be used to diagnose conditions affecting the abdomen and pelvis. Utilizing high-frequency sound waves to create images of the interior of a body, ultrasounds do not use radiation to diagnose health problems. It is simple and quick to use, often taking less than 30 minutes to complete. An ultrasound gives patients and their doctor real-time information and viewing of the interior that assists in the diagnosis and treatment of various health conditions. This method is commonly used to diagnose pregnancy, gallbladder disease, and blood clots.
Bone Density Scans
Bone Density Scans, also known as DEXA scans, are imaging tests that measure the strength of a patient’s bones. Similar to X-rays, DEXA scans utilize two types of X-rays at the same time to produce accurate photographs of the bones with minimal radiation. This is ideal for patients whose bone quality and density are at risk of being diminished. While it is most commonly used to provide insight into a patient’s risk of osteoporosis, it can also be used to determine bone fractures as well as measuring the body’s composition, like body fat and muscle mass.
Schedule Your Next Scan Today!
With over decades of experience, Professional Radiology in El Paso believes in equal access to knowledgeable and precise imaging to get our patients the care they need as soon as possible. Contact us online or call (915) 225-2480 to learn more about how diagnostic imaging can help you.