Imaging technologies have made great strides over the last several decades, giving doctors the sophisticated tools to help them accurately diagnose a wide variety of health conditions. For women, diagnostic imaging and health screenings are definitely a godsend, especially with the fact that they are at a higher lifetime risk than men.
Imaging tests are definitely a crucial part of every woman’s annual health check once she reaches a certain age. From ultrasound to DEXA bone scan, here are the different imaging tests women should undergo to ensure a better health outcome.
Ultrasound
While the word “ultrasound” may evoke mental pictures of a growing fetus, it has many other applications other than fetal imaging. Also referred to as sonography or diagnostic medical sonography, ultrasound imaging uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the various organs inside your body. A sonogram, which is the image produced during an ultrasound, provides important information for the diagnosis and treatment of certain conditions and diseases.
Ultrasound imaging is also used in the diagnosis of infertility and in the detection of changes in the female reproductive system. It allows the visualization of the position of the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes, and the demonstration of the changes that may take place during a menstrual cycle.
Innovations in ultrasound technology have made three-dimensional (3D) ultrasound scanning possible. This yields a more detailed view of internal organs and of a growing fetus, if you’re pregnant.
Here are some of the other uses for ultrasound imaging:
- Assessing your bone health
- Checking your thyroid gland
- Diagnosing gallbladder disease
- Evaluating blood flow
- Examining a breast lump
Mammogram
A mammogram is a diagnostic method that uses X-ray technology to examine the breast for early detection of cancer and of other breast diseases.
Its more advanced version, the 3D or digital mammogram utilizes a low-dose X-ray system and computer reconstructions to produce 3D images of your breasts. 3D mammogram creates a detailed view of the various layers of your breast, making it easier for your physician to distinguish a dense breast tissue from a benign or cancerous lump.
A mammogram is used both as a diagnostic test and a preventive health screening for women aged 40 or older, until 75.
MRI Scans
Though can be used for both sexes, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans are especially useful for women, as these are often used in the further evaluation of breast tissue after an abnormal result. Radiation-free and noninvasive, MRI scans use a powerful magnet to produce highly detailed images of breast tissue.
MRIs are also used to detect gynecological cancers such as ovarian cancer. The latest 3T MRI can detect abnormalities that are hard to see with the traditional MRI. The 3T MRI delivers twice the magnetic field strength of the traditional MRI, producing higher-resolution images faster.
DEXA Bone Scan
A DEXA bone density scan utilizes high-precision X-ray technology to measure the strength of your bones, helping your doctor determine your risk for osteoporosis and bone fractures. Abbreviation for dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, DEXA scan works by sending two X-ray beams at varying peak energy frequencies to target specific bones.
A DEXA scan is noninvasive, fast, and more accurate compared to a regular X-ray. It utilizes an extremely very low level of radiation.
Your physician may order a DEXA scan if you are a woman aged 65 or older, if you have symptoms of osteoporosis, or if you broke a bone after age 50.
Imaging Tests for Women in Bronx, NY
At Starling Diagnostics, we are committed to exceeding your expectations by delivering exceptional-quality radiology services available, including 3D ultrasound, 3T MRI, 3D mammograms, and DEXA bone scan. In addition to our cutting-edge diagnostic services, we aim to provide the best in women’s specialty healthcare, helping the women in our community achieve their desired health outcomes.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule a diagnostic procedure or health screening, call us at (718) 319-1610 or use our convenient online request form.
