•  Cat-Scans

  Computed Tomography (CT or CAT scans)
  Cross-sectional images of the body are created by rotating the x-ray beam around the patient. CT is the best way to obtain detailed images of the chest and usually suffices to accurately diagnose the liver, spleen, pancreas, kidneys, lymph nodes, uterus and ovaries, when ultrasound has been inconclusive. It is often used in the initial evaluation of the brain, where it can accurately detect bleeding.

  
  
•  Mammography

  Mammography is a special type of x-ray used to detect and diagnose breast disease. Mammography is a proven means of early detection of breast cancer, the leading cause of death in women between the ages of 35 and 54 according to the American Cancer Society. Women over the age of 40 or those with certain risk factors should have a mammogram once a year or more frequently if recommended by their physician.
  
  Risk factors include:

  • A mother or sister with breast cancer
  • Menstrual cycles starting before age 12
  • Menstrual cycles continuing beyond age 50
  • Never having had children or having the first child after age 30
  • A history of having radiation treatments to the chest area
  • Genetic traits predisposing to breast cancer

  
  CSHP is an ACR certified mammography center. Additionally, CSHP mammography technicians continually receive high praise from patients for the level of care they provide.

  
  
•  MRI-Scans

  Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
  MRI will usually (there are some exceptions) provide the most complete and detailed evaluation of the brain, spinal cord and soft tissues (especially the ligaments, tendons and cartilage in and around the joints). It can help to further evaluate the abdomen, pelvis and blood vessels if ultrasound and CT are inconclusive. MRI is usually not helpful in evaluating the lungs.

  
  
•  Nuclear Medicine

  This is highly sensitive for bone abnormalities. Nuclear medicine has high accuracy in telling whether something is wrong, but is less helpful in determining the precise diagnosis. It is typically used to evaluate function in the thyroid gland, heart, gall bladder and kidneys. PET (positron emission tomography) scanning is a specialized exam used primarily in the detection and staging of cancer.

  
  
•  Radiographs (X-Rays)

  Radiographs (typically called "X-Rays" or "Routine Films")
  Standard x-ray images usually provide an excellent evaluation of bones and the structures of the chest. They are a good first level evaluation of the joints, and often depict the sinuses fairly well. They do not show the abdominal and pelvic structures well and provide minimal information concerning the brain.

  
  
•  Ultrasound

  Ultrasound is excellent as an initial evaluation of the pelvis and upper abdomen, especially the uterus, ovaries, liver, and gallbladder, (and better than CT for gallstones). It is often very helpful in evaluating thyroid and breast abnormalities. Because of its accuracy and lack of x-ray-type radiation, ultrasound is the exam of choice of obstetrics.

  
  

You can schedule exams by calling 667-4139 and pressing option 1. Please note that many exams require pre-authorization from your insurance carrier. When your physician requests a radiology exam, it may take 2-3 days to obtain this pre-authorization. Mammograms typically do not require pre-authorization, and can be scheduled promptly.

STAT or emergency exam results are reported immediately upon completion, but please understand that results of routine exams may take several days to process. Your physician will notify you when he or she has received and reviewed the report.

In the event that we are unable to provide the service you need, we will offer you options of well-qualified providers in the area.