When a person experiences unexplained symptoms or pain, their physician will often order a diagnostic study to help determine the cause. Radiologists are doctors who use state of the art equipment to read and interpret medical images of inside the body. Correctly interpreted results allow your physician to diagnose, treat, and rule out a variety of illnesses and injuries. Radiology tests may also be required to determine the progress of a pre-existing condition.
Radiologists act as expert consultants to the referring physician, by assisting in choosing the most appropriate diagnostic testing tools and interpreting the results in order to successfully direct care and management for a condition. A diagnostic study is always read by a radiologist and may be recommended for a number of reasons. Some common reasons a patient may need a radiologist can include:
- To detect/assess a fracture
- Screening for cancer or a tumor
- To assess/detect blocked blood vessels
- To assess trauma and injures following an accident
- For a sports injury – such as a soft tissue injury
- For a joint condition
- A foreign object in the body
- Infections
- To assess bone mass
- To monitor fetal health and development during pregnancy
There are different types of equipment used to take medical images which can include:
Digital X-ray. X-rays are a common diagnostic tool that is used to identify a wide range of health conditions such as tumors and fractures. Digital X-rays are a more advanced, efficient and cost-effective form of radiography that uses special X-ray-sensitive plates to directly capture data during a patient examination. This is then immediately transferred to a computer system that produces images.
MRI magnetic resonance imaging. An MRI is a radiation-free diagnostic study that uses radio waves and a powerful magnet to produce clear, detailed images of internal body structures. MRI can be used to scan the brain, spine, the soft tissue of joints, and even the inside of bones and blood vessels.
CT (computed tomography) scan. A CT scan is a painless imaging procedure that uses multiple X-rays taken from different angles to create detailed, cross-sectional images of organs and tissues inside the body. This enables doctors to pinpoint the source of pain or injury, or detect any abnormalities. CT scans can help diagnose a wide range of medical conditions, including internal injuries, spinal problems, osteoporosis, infections, and diseases.
Ultrasound. Ultrasound is a safe, harmless diagnostic test that works by transmitting sound waves into the body. The sound waves travel until they reach a boundary between different types of tissue, bone, or fluid and then bounce back, producing an image. 3D ultrasounds can provide a detailed look at internal organs and structures and can monitor fetal health and development during pregnancy.
3D Mammography. A 3D Mammogram is an imaging test that combines multiple breast X-rays to create a three-dimensional image of the breast. It is similar to a traditional mammogram, but provides clearer and more detailed images of the breast and is particularly useful for analyzing dense breast tissue for abnormalities.
DEXA bone density scans. Bone density scans use a very low dose of ionizing radiation to create images that can help doctors detect osteoporosis and other bone-related problems. DEXA (dual energy X-ray absorptiometry) scans the entire body to identify signs of low bone mass. The scans are simple, quick, and noninvasive and require little to no preparation.
Radiology Services in Bronx, NY
At Starling Diagnostics, we offer a wide range of state-of-the-art radiology advances designed to support the most comprehensive analysis of neurological, musculoskeletal, and women’s health care issues. We specialize in providing compassionate and caring patient service, and our services enable you to begin to receive the treatment you need in the most timely and effective manner.
To find out more about our diagnostic services or to arrange an appointment, call us at (718) 319-1610 or use our convenient, secure online request form.
