Cat Scan (CT) 

Our state of the art multislice CT scanner provides decreased scanning time with increased resolution.  Multiplanar reconstruction and 3D imaging provides precision measurement for invasive procedures such as biopsies and drainage of cysts.  The speed and resolution of images makes the scanner an excellent tool for CTA (CT angiography) exams.

CT (computed tomography), sometimes called CAT scan, uses special x-ray equipment to obtain image data from different angles around the body and then uses computer processing of the information to show a cross-section of body tissues and organs.

CT imaging is particularly useful because it can show several types of tissue—lung, bone, soft tissue and blood vessels—with great clarity. Using specialized equipment and expertise to create and interpret CT scans of the body, radiologists can more easily diagnose problems such as cancers, cardiovascular disease, infectious disease, trauma and musculoskeletal disorders.

CT angiography (CTA) is an examination that uses x-rays to visualize blood flow in arterial and venous vessels throughout the body, from arteries serving the brain to those bringing blood to the lungs, kidneys, and arms and legs. CT combines the use of x-rays with computerized analysis of the images. Beams of x-rays are passed from a rotating device through the area of interest in the patient's body from several different angles to create cross-sectional images, which then are assembled by computer into a three-dimensional picture of the area being studied.

MRI

Our 1.5 short bore MRI unit allows the acquisition of excellent images of all body parts. Our specially trained MRI technologists are committed to making your experience as comfortable as possible. 

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses radiofrequency waves and a strong magnetic field rather than x-rays to provide remarkably clear and detailed pictures of internal organs and tissues. The technique has proven very valuable for the diagnosis of a broad range of pathologic conditions in all parts of the body including cancer, heart and vascular disease, stroke, and joint and musculoskeletal disorders. MRI requires specialized equipment and expertise and allows evaluation of some body structures that may not be as visible with other imaging methods.

Because MRI can give such clear pictures of soft-tissue structures near and around bones, it is the most sensitive exam for spinal and joint problems. MRI is widely used to diagnose sports-related injuries, especially those affecting the knee, shoulder, hip, elbow and wrist. The images allow the physician to see even very small tears and injuries to ligaments and muscles.

MR angiography (MRA) is an MRI study of the blood vessels. It utilizes MRI technology to detect, diagnose and aid the treatment of heart disorders, stroke, and blood vessel diseases. MRA provides detailed images of blood vessels without using any contrast material, although a special form of contrast material is often given to make the MRI images even clearer. The procedure is painless, and the magnetic field is not known to cause tissue damage of any kind.

Nuclear Medicine

Nuclear medicine is a subspecialty within the field of radiology. It comprises diagnostic examinations that result in images of body anatomy and function. The images are developed based on the detection of energy emitted from a radioactive substance given to the patient, either intravenously or by mouth. Generally, radiation to the patient is similar to that resulting from standard x-ray examinations.

Our Nuclear Medicine department offers general diagnostic procedures including nuclear cardiology, radioactive iodine therapy and lymphoscintigraphy.

U/S (Ultrasound)

Our state of the art ultrasound equipment and highly skilled registered technologists allow us to perform a vast array of procedures including routine diagnostic U/S procedures, biopsies, thoracentesis, paracentesis and breast lymphoscintigraphy.

Ultrasound imaging, also called ultrasound scanning or sonography, involves exposing part of the body to high-frequency sound waves to produce pictures of the inside of the body. Ultrasound exams do not use x-ray. Because ultrasound images are captured in real-time, they can show the structure and movement of the body's internal organs, as well as blood flowing through blood vessels.

Ultrasound imaging is usually a painless medical test that helps physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions.

Mammography

Spring Branch Medical Center's mammogram program is accredited by the American College of Radiology (ACR) and the State of Texas.

Mammography is a specific type of imaging that uses a low-dose x-ray system to examine breasts to aid in the diagnosis of breast diseases in women.

For the comfort of our patients, we utilize MammoPad which is a soft foam pad that provides a cushion between you and the mammography machine.

Screening 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 recommend screening mammography every year for women, beginning at age 40.

The National Cancer Institute (NCI) adds that women who have had breast cancer and those who are at increased risk due to a genetic history of breast cancer should seek expert medical advice about whether they should begin screening before age 40 and about the frequency of screening.

     
Diagnostic Mammography is used to evaluate a patient with abnormal clinical findings—such as a breast lump or lumps, pain or nipple discharge—that have been found by the woman or her doctor. Diagnostic mammography may also be done after an abnormal screening mammography in order to determine the cause of the area of concern on the screening exam.  In addition to diagnostic mammography we offer breast ultrasound, cyst aspiration, ultrasound guided biopsy and stereotactic biopsy.  Many times these procedures can be performed while you are here for your diagnostic mammogram.

BMD (Bone Mineral Density)

Bone density scanning, bone densitometry, is an enhanced form of x-ray technology that is used to measure bone loss.

BMD is most often used to diagnosis osteoporosis, a condition that often affects women after menopause but may also be found in men. Osteoporosis involves a gradual loss of calcium, causing the bones to become thinner, more fragile and more likely to break.

BMD is also effective in tracking the effects of treatment for osteoporosis and other conditions that cause bone loss.

This test can also assess an individual's risk for developing fractures.

Multiple Tests 

Patients will find it very easy to schedule multiple tests at convenient times at Spring Branch Medical Center. All of the Imaging services departments work in conjunctions with the many other out patient services provided here, to coordinate patient visits effectively. Scheduling is accessed by one phone number for all testing.

Educational Links: