Technologies

Carmichael Imaging provides state-of-the-art technology - and the expertise to use it - to give patients the highest quality imaging services.

Computerized Axial Tomography

A CAT scan uses computer enhanced X-rays to create a cross-sectional image of the anatomy. There are several different scans: the brain scan, abdomen scan, and chest scan. Patient preparation varies depending upon which scan is being made. During the actual scan, patients lie still and may be asked to hold their breath from time to time.

CT Brain Scan - For a scan such as this, patients may be given an I.V. injection of "contrast media," a solution that can be seen by the scanner. This scan takes a total of about 15 minutes.

CT Chest Scan - Patients in a CT Chest Scan are given an I.V. injection of contrast media before the scan, which takes 5 to 15 minutes.

CT Abdomen Scan - Before this scan, patients are given contrast media to drink and will have a waiting period of an hour, during this time an I.V. may be started for an injection of more contrast media.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging

An MRI scan uses magnetic waves to create detailed pictures of anywhere in the body. Patients are asked to lie very still on a table which will slowly move through the scanning ring. Patients often report that the "whirs" and "clicks" of the machine are really very soothing and calming. Depending on the part of the body being scanned, this test can take up to an hour.

Nuclear Medicine Scans

Nuclear Medicine scans use a radiopharmaceutical that can be tracked throughout the body. There are more than 200 scans that can be conducted, but the time needed to prepare for and complete most of them is about half an hour.

PET/CT

Think of the PET/CT scanner as a powerful camera that takes detailed pictures of the body''s biological functions. With the help of a computer, it identifies normal organ function and can pinpoint the failure of a diseased organ system.

Patients getting a PET/CT scan will be given an I.V. injection of a radiopharmaceutical which needs to circulate through the body for 60 to 90 minutes. Patients will be able to read, converse with friends or family, or listen to music while waiting for a scan. Brain scans require the patient to sit in a "quiet room" to limit brain stimulation. Heart scans may begin immediately.

After their wait, patients will be placed on a table that moves them slowly through the PET/CT scanner. They are asked to lie as still as possible because movement can interfere with the scan results. Depending on the type of test, PET/CT scans can take anywhere from 15 minutes to a full hour to complete.

Ultrasound

Carmichael Imaging also offers advanced digital ultrasound. Ultrasound simply provides a more detailed scan which enables physicians to more accurately diagnose patients. Ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of the inside of the body, including the abdomen, breasts, female pelvis, scrotum, thyroid and the vascular system. Ultrasound is also used to track fetal development. It is non-invasive, safe and painless. You will be asked to lie on an exam table. Warm gel is applied to the area to be examined, and a scanning instrument is rubbed across it to create an image on a computer screen. The entire exam usually takes about 15 minutes.

Digital X-Ray

Carmichael Imaging utilizes the latest digital radiology technology for superior X-ray images. These images are reproduced on a computer screen, and can be electronically transmitted to your physician if necessary. If patients are directed to have a radiology exam at Carmichael Imaging, they simply undergo a digital X-ray. Depending on the area of the body to be filmed, patients may be required to remove clothing in favor of a patient gown.

Bone Densitometry

Bone densitometry uses X-rays to measure bone loss, and is particularly useful in diagnosing osteoporosis - the gradual thinning and weakening of bones. While this procedure often focuses on the hips and lower spine, the whole body can be scanned, as is often the case with children.

Digital Mammography

In digital mammography, electronic solid-state detectors are used instead of film to translate X-rays into electrical signals. These signals produce breast images with extra precision and clarity, helping to better identify suspicious tissue. This procedure is available at Montgomery Breast Center.

BSGI (Breast Specific Gamma Imaging)

Montgomery Breast Center offers breast specific gamma imaging (BSGI) to show the metabolic activity of breast lesions. A small amount of tracing agent is given to the patient which emits gamma rays that are detected and translated into a digital image. The image can show physicians exactly what is happening in the cells of the breast tissue, and can be especially helpful with difficult diagnoses.