Magnetic Resonance Imagine (MRI)

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a pain-free, non-invasive medical test used to produce two-dimensional and three-dimensional images by scanning the body into “slices.” The procedure uses a combination of radio frequencies and magnetic fields to create images of internal body structures and is beneficial for its ability to detect problems within the body or brain, without surgery.

Essentially mapping the distribution of hydrogen within the body, an MRI is particularly useful for imaging the brain, spine, soft tissue within joints, and the interior structure of bones, as well as detecting nervous system, joint, heart and cancer-related diseases. The entire body is visible to the technique – which does not involve radiation – and poses few known health risks.

Which MRI is right for you?

There are currently two main types of MRIs available: High Field and Open.

A High Field MRI is the more traditional of the two. For this type, the patient is placed on a bed that moves inside a tube where the body is then scanned. Our state-of-the-art High Field MRI services are delivered through a GESigna HDx 1.5 EchoSpeed 8 Channel MRI. These machines can accommodate up to a 350 pound person.

In contrast, as its name suggests, an Open MRI is done with the patient lying on a bed that is open on three sides and can accommodate up to 660 lbs of weight. This type does not require patients to be inserted into a tube, providing comfort and reduced anxiety for those fearful of confined spaces. Longview Radiology is  the only facility between Tacoma and Salem to provide services using 1.2 High Field Open MRI technology.

We offer the following MRI services:

• Abdomen
• Pelvis
• Head
• Soft Tissue Neck
• Brain
• Orbits
• Maxillofacial Bones
• Cervical Spine
• Thoracic Spine
• Lumbar Spine
• Extremity
• Joint
• MRA Head
• MRA Neck
• MRA Chest
• MRA Abdomen
• MRA Pelvis
• MRA Run Off

Computed Tomography (CT)

Computed tomography (CT), also known as a CAT scan, uses x-rays and computer technology to produce a series of two-dimensional images of an internal body structure, or generate a three-dimensional image of a particular part of the body. This three-dimensional image is produced by the advanced diagnostic technique available through a High-Speed Helical CT and achieved by a device that winds an x-ray around the body in a spiral path. A CT scan is pain-free and used in a variety of medical situations, including the detection of cancer, heart disease and aneurysms, providing a higher level of clarity and detail than can be achieved through an x-ray exam alone.

We offer the following CT services:

• Head
• Orbits
• Maxillofacial
• Soft Tissue Neck
• Chest
• Abdomen
• Pelvis
• Cervical Spine
• Thoracic Spine
• Lumbar Spine
• Extremities/ All Joints
• CTA Head
• CTA Neck
• CTA Chest
• CTA Abdomen
• CTA Pelvis
• CTA Run-Off

Ultrasound Imaging

Ultrasound imaging, also known as medical sonography, uses high-frequency sound waves and computer technology to visualize internal organs. It is a diagnostic imaging technique that enables a radiologist to analyze the size, shape and structure of an organ and any pathologic lesions. Often used in abdominal, thyroid, obstetrical and breast imaging care, ultrasound exams do not use ionizing radiation.

Ultrasounds display images in thin, flat sections. These images provide a clear picture of soft tissues and are the preferred method of imaging for the diagnosis and monitoring of pregnancy. Most ultrasound examinations are completed within 30 minutes to one hour. There is no radiation used in ultrasound guided procedures.

We offer the following Ultrasound services:

• Obstetrical
• Fetal Head (up to 6-9 months)
• Infant Hips
• Breast
• Thyroid
• Abdomen
• Pelvis
• Renal
• Appendix
• Testicular
• Venus Duplex Extremity

Fluoroscopy

A fluoroscopic x-ray provides an examination of the tissues and deep structures of the body through the use of a fluoroscope and when indicated the consumption of a contrasting agent, such as barium, which is often used to enhance the images.

During this procedure, a continuous x-ray beam is used to view an organ or part of the body in real time by producing a video x-ray that is displayed on a computer screen or television monitor. Fluoroscopic imaging is painless and most often used for assessing stomach and bowel movement or function. It is also highly effective in viewing the upper and lower gastrointestinal tracts, and in detecting obstructions in the lungs, airway or blood vessels. In addition, Fluoroscopy is used to guide needle placement during procedures that include the imaging of joints as well as pain management injections.

We offer the following fluoroscopic imaging services:

• Esophagram
• Upper Gastrointestinal Study
• Small Bowel Follow-Through
• Barium Enema
• VCUG / Cystogram
• Myelogram
• Arthrogram / Joint Injection

Myelogram

Myelography is a type of radiographic examiantion that uses a contrast medium to detect pathology of the spinal cord, including the location oof a spinal cord injury, cysts, and tumors.  The procedure often involves injection of contrast medium into the cervical or lumbar spine, followed by several x-ray projections.  A myelogram may help to find the cause of pain not found by an MRI or CT.

Diagnostic X-rays & Radiographic Procedures

An x-ray examination, also known as a radiograph, is a non-invasive medical test that exposes part of the human body to a small dose of ionizing radiation to produce pictures of internal body structures. X-rays are the oldest and most frequently used form of medical imaging, enabling radiologists and other physicians to diagnose and treat a variety of medical conditions.

X-rays are a form of radiation, like light or radio waves. As such, they can be focused into a beam similar to that of a flashlight. However, unlike a beam of light, x-rays are able to pass through most objects, including the human body. Dense tissue and bones within the body block or absorb many of the x-rays. In doing so, they produce a picture when the x-rays strike a computerized imaging plate, appearing white against the negative background. X-rays are highly effective in displaying the internal formation of any bone in the body, including the chest, abdomen, facial bones, skull, sinuses, hand, wrist, arm, elbow, shoulder, foot, ankle, leg, knee, thigh, hip, pelvis or spine.

Radiation exposure from x-ray examinations is minimal. Contemporary x-ray systems deliver a very brief and narrow beam of radiation. Exposure is reduced by limiting the size of the beam and utilizing lead shielding devices when appropriate.

X-Rays and Pregnancy

At Longview Radiologists, we take a conservative approach to x-rays during pregnancy. In general, they are considered safe. However, in light of conflicting studies and the controversy currently surrounding this issue, we advise x-rays should only be performed during pregnancy when the benefits outweigh the risks. X-ray examinations on the arms, legs or chest do not expose your reproductive organs to the direct beam. However, x-rays of the torso, such as the abdomen, stomach, pelvis, lower back and kidneys, have a greater chance of exposure to the uterus. Patients should inform the technologist if there is a possibility of pregnancy prior to examination and must complete a patient consent form.

If you have concerns regarding the amount of radiation involved in any of the tests we offer, please contact us at (360) 425-5131.

We offer the following diagnostic x-ray and radiographic services:

• Chest
• Abdomen
• IVP
• Cervical Spine
• Thoracic Spine
• Lumbar Spine
• Skull / Facial Bones
• All Joints (hip, knee, etc.)
• Feet
• Hands
• Fingers
• Sinuses

Thyroid Biopsies

A thyroid biopsy is used to determine the cause of a nodule in the thyroid gland. When a nodule is detected, imaging tests can be performed to help determine if it is benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). If imaging studies cannot clearly define the abnormality, a biopsy may be necessary.

A thyroid biopsy, also referred to as a fine needle aspiration, involves removing cells from the thyroid gland and examining them under a microscope to determine a diagnosis. There are several imaging-guided biopsy procedures available, most of which can be performed on an outpatient basis using only a local anesthetic. These biopsies allow a radiologist to access hard to reach areas of the body – without surgery – while providing the same or even greater level of accuracy than a surgical biopsy.

Most studies show that the accuracy of the results is directly related to the greater number of separate needle aspirations done at the time of biopsy, making it common practice for several attempts to be made in the course of the procedure, or for the needle to be inserted into a few different locations within the thyroid nodule.

Firm pressure applied locally to the biopsy site for about five minutes after the procedure is usually sufficient to stop any resultant bleeding. Some minor discomfort in the neck or soreness of the ear may be noticeable for one to three days after the biopsy. However, most patients do not experience any residual discomfort after the procedure.

If you have concerns regarding the amount of radiation involved — there is no radiation with ultrasound guided thyroid biopsies

Paracentesis

A paracentesis is a minimally-invasive procedure used to remove fluid that has collected in the belly, a condition known as ascites.

During the procedure you will be asked to lie down and expose your abdomen. After cleaning the abdomen with an antiseptic solution, the radiologist will numb a small area of skin with a local anesthetic, similar to Novocain, and insert a long, thin needle along with a plastic sheath three to five inches into your abdomen to reach the peritoneal (ascitic) fluid. Ultrasound is used to guide the insertion of the needle during this process. The needle is then removed, leaving the plastic sheath behind to allow drainage of the fluid.

The fluid is then sent to a lab and studied to determine the cause of the fluid buildup. A paracentesis may be performed to check for damage after a stomach injury, diagnose an infection, or remove fluid to relieve belly pressure or pain in people with cancer or cirrhosis. The procedure itself is safe. However, there is a very small risk of infection, excessive bleeding or perforating a loop of bowel.

There is no radiation used in these procedures.

Thoracentesis

A thoracentesis is a procedure in which a radiologist uses ultrasound to guide placement of a small catheter or needle into a fluid collection surrounding the lung (pleural space), draining some of this fluid for relief of breathing problems or for diagnostic testing.

In more than 90 percent of cases, analysis of pleural fluid yields clinically useful information. A local anesthetic, similar to Novocain, is injected into the area to minimize discomfort during the procedure and the patient is asked to hold their breath to avoid the puncturing of the lung.

A chest x-ray is commonly done after the procedure to detect possible complications.

There is no radiation used in these procedures.