Radiology
Our Diagnostic Imaging Services
We can detect and diagnose disease through the following types of imaging services:
- Radiographs (X-rays): This medical procedure can detect disease and/or injury through an image called a radiograph. PCMH has a Toshiba Kalare digital fluoroscopy room and a Siemen’s Multix Impact C General Radiographic/Tomographic room with DR (Digital Radiography) technology. Although there is a small amount of radiation associated with X-rays, the health risks are very minimal.
- Ultrasound: This method of obtaining internal organ images uses echo-producing soundwaves. Patients experience no discomfort or pain during their ultrasound examination, and it does not pose any health risk. Our diagnostic ultrasound unit is the Samsung RS85, and our echo ultrasound unit is the Philips Epiq 7.
- Computed Tomography (CT scans): These safe, fast, painless procedures eliminate the need for certain exploratory surgeries and are diagnostically precise and accurate. Perry County Memorial Hospital currently has a Toshiba Aquilion 64 slice machine that offers a variety of low radiation dose scanning techniques that allow the patient to receive a decrease in radiation exposure along with faster scanning times that allows for improved image quality.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): PCMH hospital has a Toshiba Titan 1.5 Tesla machine. It is the latest innovation in diagnostic imaging. A powerful magnetic system, used in conjunction with radio waves, causes hydrogen atoms or other selected elements in the body to give off faint signals that painlessly form images of internal organs and structures for physician analysis.
- Nuclear Medicine: Involves the use of a safe radiopharmaceutical that travels though the body to help treat and/or diagnose a wide variety of diseases and disorders. PCMH performs Nuclear Medicine procedures using a sophisticated Siemen E-Cam Nuclear Scanner.
- Bone Density: PCMH has a Hologic Horizon DXA system which is the latest in densitometry technology. This test uses x-rays to show if your bones have lost minerals, such as calcium. This is done to diagnose osteoporosis, or to check for risk of bone fractures.
- Digital Mammography: Mammography is offered at PCMH using a Hologic Selenia Dimensions 3D unit. PCMH is accredited by the American College of Radiology.
Breast cancer is a leading cause of death among women, and early detection saves lives. Digital mammography is used to detect breast lumps, or tumors, by utilizing very low-dose radiation that produces an image of each breast. Mammography is primarily used for the early detection of cancer and other abnormalities of the breast.
Breast cancer usually occurs in women, but men can also develop the disease.
Women comprise about 99% of breast cancer cases. Breast cancer begins
in breast tissue cells and will usually spread to other parts of the body
if not treated. Many people know of breast cancer because itis a common
health problem for women. We have learned much about this form of cancer
over the years, including improved ways to diagnose and treat it early.
How to take action against breast cancer:
- You can reduce the risks of developing breast cancer by exercising, keeping a healthy diet, and drinking alcohol in moderation.
- Perform a self-breast exam at least once a month. This involves standing in front of a mirror and examining the breasts with hands and eyes to look for lumps.
- A breast lump does not always mean cancer. Have a doctor examine it to determine whether or not it is a malignant tumor.
- If the cancer is found early enough, a doctor may recommend removing the affected breast and taking steps to destroy surrounding cancer cells.