Diagnostic Imaging

We are a leader in the region for diagnostic imaging services. We provide these services at many locations. Thus, you don’t have to travel far for the care you need.

We provide high-quality imaging technology. Services are available around the clock at our three hospitals. We can even perform some procedures at bedside. Thus, this keeps our patients comfortable. The procedures we perform are important for making accurate diagnoses in a timely manner. As a result, patients do not have to undergo unnecessary procedures.

Detecting breast cancer early

Our goal is to detect breast cancer early. We can do that with 3D breast tomosynthesis. It is available with digital screening mammograms. We perform them at the Ephraim McDowell Women’s Breast & Health Center, Ephraim McDowell Fort Logan Hospital, and Ephraim McDowell James B. Haggin Hospital. This is the most advanced option for detecting breast cancer. We use it with our Computer-aided Detection system. As a result, we can detect a small lump up to two years before it can be felt. Thus, it can detect breast cancer when it is more treatable.

Diagnostic Imaging Services

• CT Scan
  This procedure uses X-rays to produce images of organs or blood vessels inside the body. In addition, it can biopsy tissue or fluid.
• Open MRI
  High-powered magnets and radio waves produce images of organs and structures inside the body. Because it produces 3D images, it gives very detailed information and can diagnose many problems.
• PET/CT Scan
  This procedure uses small amounts of radioactive materials, a special camera, and a computer. They assess organ and tissue functions to identify body changes at the cellular level.
• Bone Densitometry/DEXA Scan
  This scan uses an X-ray to measure the bone mineral content and density. It produces more detailed images than a standard X-ray. As a result, it helps to identify fragile bones before they break.
• Digital X-ray
  A small dose of radiation produces images of structures inside the body. We offer X-ray services at a variety of hospital/outpatient locations and our primary care clinics.
• Ultrasound
  An ultrasound, also called a sonogram, uses sound waves to produce images of soft tissues inside the body. In addition, it can biopsy tissue or fluid.
• Nuclear Medicine
  This technology injects small amounts of radioactive materials into the bloodstream. In some tests, you may inhale or swallow the materials. A radiotracer travels through the area being examined and gives off energy in the form of gamma rays. As a result, a special camera and computer detect these rays and create images of the inside of the body.
• Thyroid Ablation
  This nuclear medicine test can treat an overactive thyroid or thyroid cancer. During the test, you swallow a small dose of radioactive iodine I-131. This is an isotope of iodine that emits radiation. The isotope absorbs into the bloodstream. It destroys cells in the thyroid gland as it concentrates there.

Cardiovascular Services

• Echocardiography/3D Echocardiography
  This test uses sound waves to produce images of your heart to identify heart disease. We offer a specialized ultrasound of the heart that allows it to be viewed in three dimensions. Thus, your doctor gets a detailed image of your heart disease.
• Cardiac Stress Test
  A stress test shows how much stress the heart can manage before an abnormal rhythm starts or blood flow to the heart drops. The exercise stress test shows your doctor how your heart responds to being pushed. You walk on a treadmill or pedal a stationary bike during the test. The workout gets more strenuous as you go. As a result, your doctor can determine how well your heart can take the stress.
• Carotid Doppler Ultrasound
  Sound waves produce pictures of the carotid arteries in the neck. The procedure screens patients for blockage or narrowing of the carotid arteries, which may increase the risk of stroke. Thus, your risk for stroke can be decreased with proper treatment.
• Venous Doppler Ultrasound
  This procedure uses sound waves to produce images of the veins. It is commonly used to search for blood clots, especially in the leg. It does not use ionizing radiation. As a result, this test has no known harmful effects.
• EKG
  An electrocardiogram (EKG) records the electrical signals in your heart. It can detect heart problems and monitor the heart’s status in many situations. Because it can quickly detect heart problems, it is an effective way to monitor your heart’s health.
• Holter Monitor
  This battery-operated portable device measures and tape-records your heart’s activity (ECG). It monitors for 24 to 48 hours or longer. The device is the size of a small camera. It has wires with silver dollar-sized electrodes that attach to your skin. As a result, it can detect heart rhythm problems.

Neurodiagnostics

• Electroencephalogram (EEG)
  An electroencephalogram (EEG) detects electrical activity in your brain. It uses small, flat metal discs (electrodes) attached to your scalp. Your brain cells communicate via electrical impulses and are active all the time, even when you’re asleep. This activity shows up as wavy lines on an EEG recording. As a result, this procedure can detect epilepsy or other brain disorders.

Additional Diagnostic Imaging Services

• Stereotactic Breast Biopsy
  This procedure is used to identify a lesion within the breast precisely. Thus, the lesion can be biopsied. It is normally done when a suspicious spot is revealed by a mammogram. As a result, it helps detect breast cancer or other breast problems.
• CT Guided Biopsies
  A CT scan takes detailed pictures of the body’s organs and tissues. In a biopsy, a small piece of tissue is removed from your body using a specific needle. It is guided while viewed by a radiologist on a CT scanner. A needle biopsy is a safest and easiest way to remove this tissue from your body. In addition, it increases the accuracy of a diagnosis.
• Ultrasound Guided Biopsies
  An ultrasound-guided breast biopsy uses sound waves to help locate a lump and remove a tissue sample. The tissue sample is then examined under a microscope. This is less invasive than a surgical biopsy. As a result, it leaves little to no scarring. It also does not involve exposure to ionizing radiation.

Our diagnostic imaging services require a physician’s order. Please call Central Scheduling at (859) 239-1282 to schedule. For services at Ephraim McDowell Fort Logan Hospital, call (606) 365-4756. For services at Ephraim McDowell James B. Haggin Hospital, call (859) 733-4810.