Bone densitometry, also known as bone density scanning or DXA (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry), is a non-invasive medical imaging technique used to measure the density of bones. It’s commonly used to diagnose osteoporosis and assess the risk of fractures. During the procedure, a small amount of radiation is used to scan specific areas, usually the hip and spine, to determine bone density. The results are compared to a database of values for people of similar age and gender to assess bone health.

When is it recommended? If you:

• • Are a post-menopausal woman and are not taking hormone replacement therapy
  • Have a history of smoking
  • Have experienced bone loss or bone trauma
  • Have a family history of osteoporosis, fracture(s), hyperthyroidism and other related clinical conditions such as diabetes, liver or kidney disease
  • Use certain medications known to contribute to bone loss as a side effect, such as corticosteroids, prednisone, some barbiturates or thyroid replacement medication

A CT scan, or computed tomography scan, is a medical imaging procedure that uses X-rays and computer processing to create detailed cross-sectional images of the body. It provides clear pictures of bones, organs, and other tissues, helping doctors diagnose and treat various medical conditions.

Diagnostic X-rays are a type of imaging technique that use electromagnetic radiation to create images of the inside of the body. They’re commonly used to visualize bones, organs, and tissues to diagnose medical conditions such as fractures, infections, and tumors. X-ray images are produced by passing X-ray beams through the body, and the amount of radiation absorbed by different tissues creates varying degrees of darkness on the image, which is then interpreted by a radiologist.

Mammography is a type of medical imaging that uses low-energy X-rays to examine the breast for early detection and diagnosis of breast diseases, particularly breast cancer. It plays a crucial role in routine breast cancer screening for women, as well as in diagnostic evaluations of breast abnormalities such as lumps or changes in breast tissue.

In your screening, two standard views of each breast are taken to detect lumps that are too small or too deep to feel. The X-ray machine sends a small amount of radiation through your breasts to produce images that will be examined by a board-certified radiologist.

Screening Mammograms do NOT require a physician’s referral. This is the ONLY diagnostic imaging study (that utilizes radiation) for which this is true. You will need to tell the scheduler to which physician you want us to forward the results.

We recommend that you call your insurance company to determine if your exam will be covered by your insurance policy before making an appointment.

• When should I get a mammogram?
  • Have a family history of breast cancer
  • Annually, starting at age 40
  • At any age, at your physician’s direction, if you have unexplained lumps or discharge (this is true for both men and women)

MRI, or Magnetic Resonance Imaging, is a non-invasive medical imaging technique that uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to generate detailed images of the inside of the body. It provides high-resolution images of soft tissues, organs, and structures like the brain, spinal cord, joints, and muscles. It’s commonly used for diagnosing various conditions, including tumors, injuries, and diseases, without using ionizing radiation. During the procedure, the patient lies inside a large, cylindrical machine, and depending on the area being imaged, they might need to remain still for extended periods.

The primary reason that 2-3% of our customers fail this exam is claustrophobia (fear of small spaces). This occurs because we will be placing you in a 28-inch wide by 72-inch-long tube, in the center of the magnet, in order to obtain the exam. To improve the experience, we provide ear plugs and piped in music during the 15-45-minute-long study. If you have any level of claustrophobia, please ask your physician to consider a medication to assist you during the exam.

If you have a scheduled exam and believe that you may have difficulty due to claustrophobia, we encourage you to visit us so we can show you the equipment and possibly give you a “test run” in the magnet. This may help you determine whether or not you would require medication to help you get through the examination.

Nuclear medicine is a medical specialty that uses small amounts of radioactive materials, called radiopharmaceuticals, to diagnose and treat a variety of diseases. These materials are typically injected, swallowed, or inhaled, and their emissions are detected by special cameras or scanners to create images of the body’s internal structures and functions. This allows physicians to visualize and evaluate organ function, blood flow, metabolism, and other physiological processes, aiding in the diagnosis and management of conditions such as cancer, heart disease, and neurological disorders. Additionally, nuclear medicine can involve targeted radiation therapy to treat certain cancers and other conditions.

Ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the inside of the body. It’s non-invasive and commonly used to visualize organs, tissues, and blood flow. During the procedure, a transducer emits sound waves and records the echoes as they bounce off internal structures, generating real-time images displayed on a monitor.

OSU Medical Center provides a full range of ultrasound services, including, but not limited to:

• Carotid Duplex Ultrasound
• General Ultrasound
• Gynecological Ultrasound
• Obstetrical Ultrasound for expectant mothers
• Peripheral Vascular Ultrasound

Interventional Radiology (IR) is a medical specialty that uses minimally invasive procedures, guided by imaging techniques such as X-rays, CT scans, or ultrasound, to diagnose and treat various conditions. It involves using needles, catheters, and other instruments to perform procedures such as angiography, embolization, biopsy, and catheter placement, often as alternatives to traditional surgery. It’s particularly useful for treating conditions like tumors, blockages, and vascular diseases.

As pioneers in this advanced field, we deliver safe, effective and compassionate care to our patients by using state-of-the-art imaging and miniaturized instruments to correct or improve various types of illness (see below). Our technology allows us to obtain images of your anatomy in three dimensions, with a 360-degree view, completely and accurately, enhancing our ability to address any problems you may be experiencing.

Benefits include:

• Avoiding Open Surgery
• Minimizes Pain
• Decreased Recovery Time
  
  

Common Services for IR:

• Acute and Chronic Deep Venous Thrombosis
• Kyphoplasty/Pain Management
• Pulmonary Embolism/IVC Filters
• Women’s Health
• Liver Disease Treatment
• Peripheral Arterial Disease
• Dialysis Interventions
• Venous Access

To make an appointment for an Interventional Radiology procedure, please call 918-599-5176.