A broad range of imaging services are available for both adults and children at Texas Health Center for Diagnostics & Surgery.  All imaging procedures are interpreted by radiologists on the medical staff who are board-certified by the American College of Radiology.  Services include:

MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING (MRI)

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is safe, painless procedure which produces no ionizing radiation.  MRI uses two familiar forces, magnetism and radio waves, to produce images of your body organs and tissues.  These, in combination with sophisticated computer analysis, generate detailed images of the area being scanned.

The hospital offers two high-field 1.5T MRI machines that generate superior diagnostic efficiency and accuracy (Siemens Symphony and the Philips Infinion).  The MRI systems offer a short-bore design, accommodating anxious patients more comfortably. The Infinion MRI system offers the shortest bore system on the market making it easier to scan those who are claustrophobic.

MAGNETIC RESONANCE ANGIOGRAPHY

Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA) is a form of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) that can image blood flow through blood vessels.  With MRA, both the blood flow inside of the vessel and the condition of the blood vessel walls can be seen.  A special computer processes the images and allows the images to be seen individually or stacked as a three-dimensional image.

COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY (CT)

Computed Tomography (CT) produces a series of cross sectional images of your body that can detect many medical conditions that are not visible on traditional x-rays.  The large ring CT scanner houses an x-ray tube that moves rapidly around a specific anatomical area sending multiple signals to a computer creating 1 mm to 10 mm “slice” through your body.  These images can then be reconstructed by the computer to form a complete image of your internal anatomy.

Some CT exams require an intravenous or oral contrast agent to enhance or outline blood vessels and certain organs so that they may be seen more clearly.  If you have a history of allergies, you should discuss them with your physician prior to your exam.

ULTRASOUND

Diagnostic ultrasound is a safe, painless procedure that uses sound waves rather than radiation (x-rays).  The sound waves are directed at a specific organ, or in the case of obstetrical ultrasound, at a growing fetus.  The sound waves hit the target body part and bounce back as a series of echoes.  The ultrasound scanner detects these echoes and transforms the information into an image.  Ultrasound waves pass very easily through fluids and soft tissue of the body.  As a result, ultrasound is widely used to investigate fluid-filled organs, such as the gallbladder or uterus during pregnancy, and soft organs, such as the kidney and liver.  Ultrasound is very useful in detecting gallstones, some tumors and cysts (fluid collections).  Blood vessels, such as the major arteries and veins, are also commonly studied.

X-Ray

An x-ray (radiograph) is a painless medical test that uses a radioactive beam to take pictures of the inside of the body.  The beam is projected through the body onto film, similar to a camera.  X-rays help physicians diagnose and treat various medical conditions.

Hysterosalpingography (HSG)

A Hysterosalpingography (HSG) is an x-ray test that examines the inside of the uterus and fallopian tubes.  The exam requires a special fluid be placed into your uterus and fallopian tubes.  The contract shows these structures on the x-ray screen highlighting the inner size and shape so that the physician and diagnose any problems.

UPPER AND LOWER G.I.

An upper and lower GI (gastrointestinal) is an examination of your upper and lower digestive system, which includes the esophagus, stomach, beginning of the small bowel, large intestine and rectum.  Both upper and lower GIs are performed with a contrast agent called barium sulfate which can be seen on x-ray.  Inside your body, the barium flows through your digestive system, outlining the digestive folds and showing any abnormality, such as a tumor, ulcer, polyp, or inflammation.

INTRAVENOUS PYELOGRAM

An intravenous pyelogram (IVP) is used to study the kidney, uretera, and bladder.  A contrast agent is injected into the vein which helps to visualize the urinary tract.  Images are taken at specific intervals, and your radiologist will determine if additional images are necessary to complete this exam.  This procedure takes approximately 1 to 2 hours to complete.

MYELOGRAPHY

A Myelogram, also called myelography, is a diagnostic procedure in which x-rays and CT (Computed Tomography) scan images are taken of the spine after a water-soluble contrast medium is injected into the spinal canal.  A myelogram is used to visualize abnormalities within the spinal canal.  This exam provides your physician with valuable information that assists in accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.