Right Medical Imaging Test Discussion

What medical imaging test is right for you?

Medical imaging tests are great for providing extremely detailed views and information about your body. They can identify injuries and diseases and assist in providing the right treatment for you. But there are different medical imaging tests out there, so it’s important to know the difference and purpose of each one.

Test Purpose Process
Computed tomography (CT) CT scans are extremely helpful in diagnosing serious injuries in the bones, organs, spine, head and blood vessels. They can also be used to pinpoint the size and location of tumors. A CT scan takes several x-ray images of the body from different angles. A computer then combines the pictures into detailed, cross-sectional images.  
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) MRIs are great for diagnosing injuries in bones, joints and soft structures like tissues, ligaments and cartilage. They are extremely useful in showing the differences between normal and abnormal tissues. An MRI scan uses a powerful magnet and radio waves to create detailed, cross-sectional images. Radio waves pulse into the body, which causes the tissues to resonate, and the vibrations then translate into images of your organs and tissues.  
Ultrasound An ultrasound is good for evaluating the growth of a baby during pregnancy, assessing a breast lump, diagnosing an infection or cancer, and determining how well blood is flowing through the vessels. An ultrasound uses inaudible, high-frequency sound waves that are transmitted with a device called a transducer, and the echoes are recorded and transformed into images of your body’s structures.  

 

The main concern with certain tests is radiation. CT scans, for example, can emit higher levels of radiation and can potentially cause needless side effects if the scan is performed excessively or without good reason. Another potential concern is the contrast materials sometimes used in certain medical imaging tests, like MRIs. They can have a range of effects if a person is allergic to the material, from a mild skin irritation to a life-threatening allergic reaction. Also with an MRI, any metal/electronic devices on a patient, such as a pacemaker, can be interfered with and result in injury since they get pulled towards the magnet in the MRI machine.

It’s important to consider the risks and benefits associated with each test so you and your physician can make the best decisions regarding your health. MH Imaging is proud to have low dose CT scanners, open MRI machines and high-performing technology to accommodate all types of patients without compromising safety, performance and efficiency. Contact MH Imaging to schedule an affordable wellness screening in Kenosha, Racine or Milwaukee.

 

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