Computed Tomography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Computed Tomography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging offer a unique view of human anatomy and pathology. Both techniques perform cross sectional imaging. Beyond that, however, the studies are based on entirely separate concepts and yield different information. Over the years we have come to rely heavily on CT to provide answers to questions involving the chest, abdomen, spine and brain. MRI also provides detailed evaluation of the spine and brain and has become a strong diagnostic tool in evaluating abnormalities of the arms and legs, especially about the joints.

Fluoroscopic and Conventional Exams

Conventional radiographs (x-rays) remain a valuable tool and continue to constitute a large portion of a radiologist's daily work. All of our sites provide high quality imaging in a professional and timely manner. Whether you are being evaluated for a fracture or getting a routine chest x-ray we will do our utmost to provide quick and courteous service. Fluoroscopy is a dynamic study allowing the "real time" observation of anatomic motion. The most common studies you are likely to need involve evaluation of the gastrointestinal tract. Upper gastrointestinal (upper GI) evaluations are performed to evaluate the esophagus, stomach and parts of the small bowel. Barium Enemas are performed when evaluation of the colon is needed.

Mammography

Routine mammographic screening is the best method for the early detection of breast cancer. Early detection allows for more effective treatment. We highly recommend annual mammography for every woman above the age of forty. Examination of younger women with specific problems or a strong family history of breast cancer can also be performed. All of our sites are certified by the American College of Radiology as well as the Food and Drug Administration. All radiologists and technical staff members meet or exceed all training standards. We are all dedicated to providing the highest quality study possible in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

Stereotactic Mammatome Breast Biopsies

If you or someone you care for has an abnormal finding on mammography, what happens next? Sometimes the answer is simply close follow up. Often a biopsy will be needed to provide a more definite answer. Conventionally, biopsies are performed by open surgery. Stereotactic technique allows less invasive sampling of an abnormality with special biopsy needles. The Advanced Breast Biopsy Instrument (ABBI) is the most recent development in stereotactic biopsy. This device allows a larger specimen to be taken through a small incision. This procedure is performed at the Dyersburg Regional Medical Center as an out patient.

Ultrasound

Sound waves that are too high for the human ear are called ultrasound. The echoes that these sound waves create can be used to construct a detailed image. That is the basic concept for any ultrasound examination. This study is heavily used in the evaluation of abdominal pain and in pregnancy. The utility of this procedure, however, extends far beyond these applications. Non invasive screening studies of the arterial and venous systems are now performed routinely. These most commonly include examination of the carotid arteries or the veins of the legs. Evaluation of the heart (echocardiography) is a valuable tool in the evaluation of cardiac function. We are proud to say that all of our sites are certified by the American College of Radiology.

Bone Densitometry

Osteoporosis is a disease that gradually weakens bones so they become fragile and more likely to break. The broken bones can lead to pain, height loss, difficulty moving around and curving of the back. With the development of new pharmacologic treatments for osteoporosis, there has been an increasing need for reproducible quantification of bone density. Bone densitometry is the latest addition to the services offered by Dyersburg Regional Medical Center. The Lunar DPX-IQ is a powerful tool, capable of doing measurements of the whole body or tailored measurements of the hip, forearm or lower back. For an appointment, call 287-2450.