Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
Magnetic Resonance Imaging, commonly referred to as MRI, is a scanning system that creates detailed images of the human anatomy using magnets, computers, and radio waves.
MRI offers high quality detailed images of internal organs and internal structures of the body. For example, an MRI of the head can provide detailed images of the brain and can show specific abnormalities in the soft tissues. In some cases a contrast agent will be administered to enhance images for the purpose of interpretation.
MRI is particularly helpful in determining abnormalities of the brain and spinal cord, injuries or abnormalities of joints, tumors, cysts, and other abnormalities of various parts of the body. Magnetic Resonance Imaging can not be used on patients with cardiac pacemakers, certain types of aneurysm clips, neurostimulators, inner ear implants, and some types of implanted medical pumps.
CT of the Head, Neck and Spine
CT, or Computed Tomography, uses x-rays and computer technology to image the body. Traditional x-rays show only the outlines of bones and organs, while CT shows much more detail. It can create cross-sectional images, as well as a three-dimensional, computerized images by combining narrow-slice views of the area being scanned. Because it can show very detailed anatomical pictures from all angles, physicians use CT to diagnose and treat many different diseases.
CT scans are typically very fast and are often utilized in the emergency setting because of their speed and accuracy in diagnosis.
CT Angiography (CTA) or MR Angiography (MRA)
Angiography is a minimally invasive treatment medical test that helps physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions. In magnetic resonance (MR) angiography, a powerful magnetic field, radio waves and a computer produce the detailed images. MR angiography may be performed with or without contrast material. If needed, the contrast material is usually injected using a vein in the arm.
Ultrasound
Ultrasound imaging is fast, painless, non-invasive, and easy. It is an excellent way to examine internal organs, to guide needle biopsies, and to diagnose vascular problems. Ultrasound, also called sonography, uses high-frequency sound waves to show real-time visual images. Echoes are produced as sound waves travel through the body, which identify the distance and size of an object.
Ultrasound scanners have a video display screen, a computer, and a transducer. The transducer sends sound waves through the body, the computer receives these waves, and the screen displays them. Images from the exam will appear on screen and can be reviewed as they are taken.
Nerve Root Blocks and Epidural Injections
The administration of medication into the epidural space, the area which surrounds the spinal canal. It is used to treat swelling, pain, and inflammation associated with neurological conditions that affect nerve roots, such as a herniated disk. Spinal injections are usually performed utilizing fluoroscopy or CT.
Myelograms
In this procedure, the contrast dye is injected into the spinal canal following a fluoroscopically guided lumbar puncture, allowing spinal cord and nerve compression caused by herniated discs or fractures to be seen on an x-ray and under CT. This study is often done instead of MRI when a patient has a contraindication to MRI, such as a pacemaker or claustrophobia.
CT or MR Carotid Angiograms
An imaging study depicting the major blood vessels running through either side of the neck. In a conventional angiogram, a dye is injected into the bloodstream and x-rays are taken to visualize the blood vessels. CT or MRI can be used to create three-dimensional pictures of blood vessels noninvasively.
Fluoroscopy Guided Lumbar Punctures
Fluoroscopy is a study of moving body structures. It’s similar to an x-ray “movie.” A continuous x-ray beam is passed through the body part being examined, and is transmitted to a TV-like monitor so that the body part and its motion can be seen in detail.