Diagnostic Imaging

At Oakdale Community Hospital we are dedicated to providing greater convenience for patients needing diagnostic tests involving radiology services. Our imaging and radiology services teams work with doctors, nurses and other clinicians to deliver comprehensive care. Our digital imaging technology allows doctors to access test results immediately, so treatment can begin more quickly. Our trained imaging technologists are certified with advanced registries and are focused on patient safety and comfort.

We offer walk-in procedures and scheduled procedures.

We offer a full range of imaging services:

• CT
• MRI
• Nuclear Medicine
• Digital Mammography
• Ultrasound
• X-ray
• Bone Densitometry

CT SCAN:

A CT or CAT (computed tomography) scan combines X-ray and computer technology to show highly detailed, 3-D images of any part of the body, including bones, muscles, fat, organs and blood vessels. Scans can also be performed using a contrast solution (either swallowed or injected) to make tissues and vessels more visible. This technology can be used to examine a wider range of conditions.

MRI:

MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is a diagnostic procedure that combines a powerful magnet, radio waves and computer technology to provide detailed images of tissues, muscles, nerves and bones. Because MRI uses magnetic force and radio waves to create images, there is no radiation exposure during the procedure. MRI is often used instead of CT to study soft tissues or organs because bones do not obscure the organs and soft tissues as they do with CT imaging.

NUCLEAR MEDICINE:

This creates images of the body using radioactive substances, detecting tumors and determining the quality of blood flow through the heart and lungs.

2D MAMMOGRAPHY:

Mammography uses low-dose X-rays to detect cancer. The American College of Radiology (ACR) and the American Medical Association (AMA) recommend annual mammograms for women over 40. The National Cancer Institute (NCI) suggests women with a family history (or personal history) of the disease discuss screening with their physician.

Ultrasound:

Ultrasound uses sound waves to produce images of the body’s internal organs and soft tissues. Radiation is not used and there are no known side effects.

Breast Ultrasound:

Breast ultrasound is used to get better pictures of the inside of the breast. This is usually used when trying to diagnose lumps following a screening mammogram or exam.

Vascular Ultrasound:

Vascular ultrasound uses sound waves to help identify blockages in arteries and veins and detect blood clots.

Diagnostic Digital X-ray:

X-ray uses a very small dose of radiation to produce pictures of the body’s internal structures.

Bone densitometry (DEXA, DXA):

Bone densitometry, also called dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, DEXA or DXA, uses a very small dose of ionizing radiation to produce pictures of the spine and hips to measure a patient’s risk of osteoporosis.