Other Examinations

A bone density test, sometimes called a DEXA Scan, (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry), is a bone density measurement that indicates how solid bones are and how strongly they are fortified by calcium. DEXA scanning can identify low bone density in patients at an early stage, enabling doctors to prescribe appropriate treatment before the condition worsens.

The Bone Density test is a simple procedure using a low dose of X-ray energy. The patient lies down on the scan table and two images are taken. Images of the lower spine and hips are most often used in checking for osteoporosis. The computer generates images of the region scanned. These images are then analyzed by the computer to obtain the bone mineral density value. Bone mineral measurements are highly correlated with bone strength and have been shown to reliably predict fractures and the status of osteoporosis.

PREPARATION:

No Calcium supplements 24 hours prior to study.
This examination will take approximately 15 minutes.
If the patient wears elastic waist pants/skirt he/she will likely not have to change into a gown.

If you have recently undergone a barium study of any kind -such as an upper gastrointestinal (UGI) tract exam, barium enema or computed tomography (CT) scan -you should wait at least 14 days before a DEXA exam is performed.

This exam is performed at all our locations.

Diagnostic radiography is performed at all of our locations. With a physicians request an X-ray can be performed at any time. Examples of these exams would be a chest, abdomen, or extremity. All exams can be processed and read by a physician at the time of your visit.

Nuclear Medicine procedures provide information about the anatomy of the body and the function of its organs. When you undergo a nuclear medicine scan, a chemical compound, which contains a small amount of a radioactive material, is administered by an injection in the arm.

After the administration of the compound, the nuclear medicine scans can be performed either immediately, or after a circulation period. The circulation time varies depending on the area being studied.

A special detector, called a gamma camera, is used to image the body part being studied. The camera does not produce radiation, it simply detects the radioactive compound that was injected. This is collected by a computer and a digital image is produced that can be manipulated and stored onto film. Our Nuclear Medicine Technologists are registered and must maintain their registry through continuing education.

PET/CT scanning has been located at North Medical Suite 2C since November 2000. We have done more than 19,000 exams in that time. PET/CT detects metabolic activity within cancer cells – which by nature are highly metabolic- providing vital information about the cells’ function. The scanner is used primarily in the management and detection of cancer, but is also available for the evaluation of patients with certain neurological and cardiac conditions.
 
Why is PET/CT important?
Positron Emission Tomography (PET) is a unique imaging modality that is capable of detecting specific diseases at an early stage. A PET scan will provide information that can be used for the planning and management of your care, as well as determining therapy and monitoring your progress. The combination of PET and CT allows radiologists and physicians to use the benefits of both modalities to ensure they have the most accurate information to manage your care.

How is PET/CT used?
PET/CT is utilized in:
Oncology |  to determine the location and severity of a tumor’s growth
Neurology |  to aid in the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease, Dementia, strokes, brain tumors, and seizures.
 
What do I need to tell the scheduler?
When scheduling your PET/CT scan, inform the imaging staff if:

• You are taking any medication
• You are diabetic
• You are pregnant or nursing

How do I prepare for my scan?
Fast after midnight before your appointment. Diabetic patients will be given special instructions.
All scheduled patients will receive a phone call prior to the day of the appointment. We will discuss instructions for the test and answer questions.

Upon arrival at the PET/CT office
Medical history and any prior PET or PET/CT exams will be reviewed. Blood sugar may be checked, and an imaging tracer called Fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) will be administered by way of injection. A one hour resting period will be required before the scanning begins. This resting period is necessary for the FDG to be distributed throughout your body.

At the time of PET/CT scanning
You will be positioned on the scan table.The table will be moved into a large opening in the PET/CT scanner. You will be asked to lie still while the PET/CT scanner acquires the images. The time of the scans varies, but will typically range form 20-30 minutes.

Upon PET/CT scan completion
A technologist will process the computer images. The reading physician will interpret these images. A report will be generated and forwarded to your referring physician.

To schedule or call with questions: 315-452-2666
Fax: 315-452-2669