The Radiology Department at Valley Medical Center was upgraded to provide digital imaging. The department installed a Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS) in July 2007. PACS is a computer based system that manages the viewing, flow and storage of digital images. It is used for CT, MRI, Ultrasound, DEXA and Diagnostic general radiology that previously were printed out on film. Physicians now have access to this diagnostic tool via a computer in their office and at workstations around the clinic.

All medical information and images that a physician will need to provide a patient with care are available electronically at Valley Medical Center.

The time and cost savings is tremendous. The caregivers who need patient information will get it more quickly. The sooner they have that information, the sooner an accurate diagnosis and treatment option can be identified. This means better patient care.

Services
Diagnostic Radiology	CT	Mammography
Ultrasound	MRI	Bone Densitometry

Computerized Tomography (CT)

CT - sometimes called CAT scan - is an X-ray exam using a scanner to produce a series of cross-sectional images of a selected part of the body. CT is very helpful in evaluating such areas as the bone, abdomen, and brain.

Preparation for your exam

Preparation for the exam varies, depending on which body part being scanned. For most procedures no prep will be required. For the abdomen & pelvis exam you will need to drink a special liquid, which can be picked up at the radiology scheduling desk prior to your exam.

If you are over 60 years old or diabetic, a blood test may be required prior to the exam.

During your exam

• While positioning you on the exam table, the technologist will explain your procedure and answer any questions you may have.
• If I.V. contrast is being used, it will be injected through your vein.
• During the injection you may experience a warm sensation all over your body and a metal taste in your mouth. This is normal. If you experience any itching, sneezing, nasal congestion, scratchy throat or swelling of your face you should notify the technologist immediately.
• You will be asked to lie flat on your back. Your arms will be positioned at your sides.
• After your positioned you will be asked to hold very still. The table you are on will slide into the scanner. The scanner is open at the back and the front, allowing you to see out.
• The technologist will always be able to see and hear you during your exam.
• This procedure usually takes approximately 15 to 30 minutes.

After your exam

Usually there are no restrictions placed on you after this procedure. If you received an injection of I.V. contrast, it will be eliminated through your urine and should cause no discoloration. It is suggested that you increase your fluid intake after the exam to help your body eliminate the contrast. You can resume your normal diet, unless told otherwise by your physician.

The radiologist will analyze the images and send a signed report to your physician. Your physician will discuss the results with you.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) use a magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of the body. MRI produces soft-tissue images and allows the radiologist to distinguish between normal, healthy tissue and diseased tissue. An MRA is specifically designed to look at blood vessels, veins and arteries.

During your exam

If it is necessary, you may be asked to change into a patient gown. Because you will be place in a magnetic field during the examination, you must remove all jewelry, metal objects and credit cards before you enter the exam room. The technologist will go over a thorough questionnaire with you prior to your examination. Usually no pre-exam preparation is necessary.

The technologist will bring you into the MRI room and position you on the table. The table will move electronically, placing you in the correct position inside the tube-like scanner. During the exam you will hear a rapid drumming noise and may feel some vibration. It is important that you remain as motionless as possible during the examination. If you are claustrophobic you may want to discuss pre-medication with your physician to help you relax during your MRI examination

After your exam

The I.V. contrast, if used, will be eliminated through your urine and should cause no discoloration. It is suggested that you increase your fluid intake after the exam to help your body eliminate the contrast. You can resume your normal diet, unless told otherwise by your physician.

The radiologist will analyze the images and send a signed report to your physician. Your physician will discuss the results with you.

Bone Densitometry

Bone Densitometry measures the health (density) of the bone. The primary use of Bone Densitometry is to diagnose or screen for osteoporosis. It uses a very low energy x-ray beam to produce a scan of the lumbar spine, hip and/or forearm. The information is used to assess your bone condition, risk of fracture, and to determine if treatment is necessary.

How is a Bone Densitometry performed?

The study is performed by a International Society for Clinical Densitometry (ISCD) certified technologist. The procedure takes about 15 -20 minutes. Comfortable clothes should be worn, such as cotton clothing. Any metal such as zippers, snaps or buttons can interfere with the scan and will need to be removed. During the exam you will lie on the table as the area of interest is scanned.

What is an IVA (FVA)?

In addition to a bone densitometry your physician may order an IVA (Instant vertebral assessment or vertebral fracture assessment.) An IVA allows your physician to identify spine fractures with one rapid, low dose, single image.

Vertebral fractures are far more common than one might imagine. Up to one quarter of Caucasian women over age 50 have at least one fracture. The presence of one or more vertebral fractures dramatically increases the risk of future fractures. IVA demonstrates that up to 30% of patients needing treatment are missed using BMD results alone.

Mammography

Mammography is a type of imaging that uses a low-dose x-ray system to examine the breasts. Mammograms are used as a screening tool to detect early breast cancer in women experiencing no symptoms and to detect and diagnose breast disease in women experiencing symptoms such as a lump, pain or nipple discharge.

Every woman has a 1 in 8 lifetime risk of developing breast cancer. Thanks to advanced diagnostic techniques many will go on to live normal, healthy lives.

Guidelines

The best method of early detection of breast cancer is through a combined physical examination and mammogram. While mammography is an excellent diagnostic tool it should be used in combination with a clinical breast examination and self-examinations, using the following guide:

• Begin monthly breast self-examination by age 20
• Request an annual clinical breast examination by your physician beginning at age 20
• Schedule annual mammography screenings beginning at age 40
• If you believe you are at risk for breast cancer based on family history, contact your physician to discuss when you should begin screenings.

What is breast self-examination?

Performed on a monthly basis, breast self-examination is a system that allows a woman to thoroughly check her breasts for signs of cancer, both visually and palpably (by touch).

What is a clinical breast examination?

A clinical breast exam includes visual and palpable (touch) examination of your breasts and surrounding tissues. At Valley Medical Center these exams are conducted by your physician.

Do I need a mammogram?

Mammography plays a central part in early detection of breast cancers because it can show changes in the breast up to two years before a patient or physician can feel them. Current guidelines from the American Cancer Society (ACS) and the American College of Radiology (ACR) recommend screening mammography every year for women, beginning at age 40. If you are a female and over 40, don't delay - a mammogram could save your life.

For more information or to schedule your appointment, please call 208-746-1383

Ultrasound

Ultrasound is a safe and painless procedure that uses sound waves to "see" inside your body. The scan can help diagnose medical conditions such as gallbladder disease, suspected blood clots in the legs, as well as problems in the liver, kidneys, and pancreas. Ultrasound can also be used to show the development of an unborn child.

Before your exam

Depending on the exam that is ordered you may be asked to not eat or drink for eight hours prior to your exam. Some exams do require that you have a full bladder; if that's the case then you'll be asked to drink 32 oz. of water and have FINISH drinking one hour prior to your exam.

During your exam

• Upon your arrival, you may be asked to change into a gown.
• Once in the exam room, the diagnostic medical sonographer will explain your procedure and answer any questions you may have.
• The sonographer will position you on your back and apply warm gel to the skin. The gel is very similar to hair styling gel and helps the sound waves travel from the machine into your body.
• A transducer, a small microphone-like device, is placed over the area being examined. This will happen several times. You will feel mild pressure from the transducer and some discomfort if you have a full bladder.
• The sound waves will bounce off the organs and tissue in your body. This creates "echoes". The echoes are reflected back to the transducer. A monitor shows images as the transducer converts the echoes to electrical signals.
• Your exam will take approximately 30 to 60 minutes.

After your exam

The radiologist will analyze the images and send a signed report to your physician. Your physician will discuss the results with you.

Diagnostic Radiology

General Diagnostic Radiology is a painless x-ray examination (radiograph) used to evaluate such areas as the chest, spine, skull, extremities, hips, pelvis or abdomen. It is often used to evaluate suspected fractures or other indications of injury or abnormality.