Sometimes scheduling an x-ray, MRI, discogram, bone density test, CAT Scan, or PET scan can be very nerve-wracking as a patient may not know what to expect. To help ease your mind, our radiographer has put together a diagram of why your doctor may have ordered a particular test, how to prepare and what to expect. This is a great resource and easy to understand which has helped many of our patients. As always, if you have any specific questions prior to your appointment, please feel free to contact us and a member of our staff will be happy to assist you!
| PROCEDURE | WHY DID MY DR. ORDER THIS TEST? |
| X- RAY | An x-ray creates two-dimensional images (pictures) of the body’s internal organs or bones to help diagnose conditions or diseases. An x-ray can show fractures (broken bones), dislocations and some types of cancer or arthritis. |
| MRI | An MRI is a test that uses a magnetic field and pulses of radio wave energy to make images (pictures) of organs and structures inside the body. An MRI gives different information about structures in the body than can be seen with an x-ray or other imaging methods. |
| CAT SCAN/CT | A CT scan combines special x-ray equipment with computers to produce multiple 3D pictures of the structures inside the body. These cross-sectional images of internal organs, bones, soft tissue and blood vessels provide greater clarity and reveal more details then a regular x-ray exam. |
| PET SCAN | A PET scan is an imaging test that can help reveal how your tissues and organs are functioning. A small amount of radioactive material is necessary to show this activity. |
| DISCOGRAM | A discogram is an injection technique used to evaluate patients with back pain who have not responded to conservative (non-surgical) treatments. It is used to identify painful discs in the spine. |
| BONE DENSITY | A bone density test uses x-rays to measure how many grams of calcium and other bone minerals are packed into a segment of bone. The bones that are most commonly tested are located in the spine, hip and forearm. |
CLICK HERE to download complete document with additional information on how to prepare and what to expect!
