
Computerized tomography, better known as CT or CAT scans, is a specific type of X-ray equipment utilized to obtain images from inside the body processed to create a cross-section, 3-dimensional image. This multi-sided image allows your medical team to look at inner body tissues from different angles. CT scans are non-invasive tests used for a wide variety of tests. At Mee Memorial Healthcare System, we work with state-of-the-art CT scanners, which have a doughnut-type shape in which the X-ray source rotates and emits a beam recorded by a detector. These recorded images are computer-processed to reconstruct a 3D image.
CT scan works like other x-ray exams. With CT scanning, several x-ray beams and x-ray detectors rotate around you. Sometimes, the exam table will move during the scan so that the x-ray beam follows a spiral path. A special computer program then processes this data to create a two-dimensional cross-sectional images of your body
For children, the technique will be adjusted to their size and the area of interest to reduce the radiation dose.
CT scan can help diagnose the following conditions:
CT scans may require follow-up diagnostic testing, including MRI scans or X-rays, to make a complete and accurate diagnosis. For example, if your CT scan shows a “normal” result, but you continue to experience symptoms, you should speak to your doctor about further test options, or ask for a referral to a specialist who can expand on the diagnostic investigation.
CT scans are stored electronically and can be delivered via email, when necessary.
To schedule a CT scan appointment at Mee Memorial Healthcare System, please call 831-385-7130.
An ultrasound scan, sometimes called a sonogram, is a procedure that uses high-frequency sound waves to create an image of part of the inside of the body. The images can provide valuable information for diagnosing and treating a variety of diseases and conditions.
A trained technician presses a small, hand-held device called transducer against the area being studied and moves it as needed to capture the images. The transducer sends sound waves into your body, collects the ones that bounces back and send them to a computer, which creates the images.
Ultrasound is used to diagnose/view the following conditions:
Is the most common screening method for breast cancer screening. Mammography uses low energy x-rays to examine the human breast for diagnosis and screening.
You will stand in front of the x-ray machine. Your breast is placed on a small platform. A clear plastic plate presses down on the breast for a few seconds. The technologist will then take several pictures of the breast.
Mammogram is widely used to diagnose the following conditions:
A bone density test determines if you have osteoporosis, a disorder characterized by bones that are more fragile and more likely to break. A bone density test enhances the accuracy or calculating your risk of breaking bones. Bone density 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 in the spine, hip and sometimes the forearm.
In bone density scanning, the machine sends an invisible beam of low-dose x-rays with two distinct energy peaks through the bones being examined. One peak is absorbed mainly by soft tissue and the other by bone. The soft tissue amount can be subtracted from the total and what remains is a patient’s bone mineral density.
Dexa machines features special software that compute and display the bone density measurement on a computer
Doctors use bone density testing to: