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Diagnostic Imaging

Who We Are

The Diagnostic Imaging department is made up of a multidisciplinary team that is dedicated to providing the highest quality diagnostic images possible consistent with the highest level of patient safety.

The HCHC team of radiology professionals are comprised of radiologists, technologists and nursing personnel. Each member plays a distinct role in facilitating the patients through their procedures and providing diagnostic images and reports for physicians so that the patients can receive the appropriate treatment.

What We Do

Core services performed at Henry County Health Center include: X-Ray, CT, MRI, 3-D Mammography, Ultrasound, Nuclear Medicine, PET/CT and Fluoroscopy.

Computed Tomography (CT)

A computerized axial tomography scan (CT) is an x-ray procedure that combines many x-ray images with the aid of a computer to produce views and, if needed, three-dimensional images of the organs and structures of the body. Computerized axial tomography is more commonly known by its abbreviated names, CT scan or CAT scan. A CT scan is used to define normal and abnormal structures in the body and/or assist in procedures by helping to accurately guide the placement of instruments or treatments.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a noninvasive medical test that helps physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions. MR imaging uses a powerful magnetic field, radio frequency pulses and a computer to produce detailed pictures of organs, soft tissues, bone and virtually all other internal body structures. The images can then be examined on a computer monitor, transmitted electronically, printed or copied to a CD. MRI does not use ionizing radiation (x-rays).

Nuclear Medicine (NM)

Nuclear Medicine is a branch of medical imaging that uses small amounts of radioactive isotopesto diagnose or treat a variety of diseases, including many types of cancers, heart disease and certain other abnormalities within the body.

These imaging procedures are noninvasive and are usually painless medical tests that help physicians diagnose medical conditions. These imaging scans use radioactive materials called radiopharmaceuticals or radiotracers.

Depending on the type of nuclear medicine exam you are undergoing, the radiotracer is either injected into a vein, swallowed and eventually accumlates in the organ or area of your body being examined, where it gives off energy in the form of gamma rays. This enegy is detected by a device called a gamma camera or a specialized PET/CT scanner. These devices work together with a computer to measure the amount of radiotracer absorbed by your body and to produce special pictures offering details on both the structure and function of organs and tissues.

Ultrasound (US)

Ultrasound imaging, also called ultrasound scanning or sonography, involves exposing part of the body to high-frequency sound waves to produce pictures of the inside of the body. Ultrasound exams do not use ionizing radiation. Because ultrasound images are captured in real-time, they can show the structure and movement of the body’s internal organs, as well as blood flowing through blood vessels. Ultrasound imaging is a noninvasive medical test that helps physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions.

3-D Mammography

HCHC offers the most advanced breast imaging with Hologic Selenia Dimensions 3-D mammography. Breast tomosynthesis, often referred to as 3-D mammography, allows doctors to see masses and distortions associated with cancers and precancerous cells significantly more clearly than conventional 2-D mammography. Instead of viewing all of the complexities of breast tissue in a flat image, as with traditional 2-D mammography, fine details are more visible with 3-D imaging and no longer hidden by the surrounding tissue.

A 3-D mammography exam is very similar to having a traditional 2-D mammogram. Like a 2-D mammogram, the technologist will position the patient, compress the breast, and take images from different angles. However, with the 3-D mammogram the radiologist can see finer details throughout the breast, with the procedure taking less than 10 seconds. In addition, 3-D acquires more images per exposure giving the radiologist more information and it has superior diagnostic accuracy for all breast types. Very low x-ray energy is used during the exam, with the total patient dose being well within the FDA safety standards for mammography.

Studies have shown that 3-D mammograms result in the following benefits for patients:

  • 30-35 percent increase in cancer detection
  • 11 percent decrease in biopsy rate
  • An approximate 40 percent reduction in recall rates
  • 40-50 percent increase in invasive cancer detection

Note: There is an additional $60 charge for 3-D mammography ($28 technical fee and $32 radiologist professional fee). Breast tomosynthesis is a relatively new procedure and may not meet all insurance providers’ medically necessary criteria. Therefore, patients choosing to not pay the additional fee for 3-D mammography at the time of service may choose to have 2-D mammography.

For more information on Diagnostic Imaging, please call 319-385-6158. To schedule a mammogram, call 319-385-6540.