General Diagnostic Radiology

General Diagnostic Radiology

General Diagnostic Radiology is the most familiar form of radiology. Radiology Regional provides comprehensive radiology to its patients. These procedures include plain film examinationsgastrointestinal studies, genitourinary studies, arthrograms, hysterogramsetc. Almost all newly reported technical advances are rapidly incorporated into the repertoire of RRC. In any form of medical care, diagnostic radiology plays an integral part in the diagnosis of disease.

Plain film radiography and fluoroscopy have been the mainstay of diagnostic radiology for many years.  They are often the first radiological exams performed on a patient.

Radiography is a fancy name for x-rays.  The exam consists of passing a small amount of radiation through the body to form an image on film that the radiologist interprets.  A contrast agent is sometimes used to block the x-rays from passing through the selected body areas in order to obtain clearer, more detailed images.

X-ray (radiography) is commonly used to evaluate the chest, spine, extremities and abdomen.  Contrast may be introduced through an IV or catheter to more clearly see the urinary system, bowel or other internal structures.  X-rays are sometimes ordered prior to or for comparison with other imaging procedures.

Fluoroscopy utilizes technology similar to x-ray; however, fluoroscopy allows the radiologist to examine the patient in real time using a monitor.  The patient’s anatomy is imaged and viewed as it functions.

Either of these procedures may be used to look at the digestive system, certain reproductive organs, spinal contents and, in some cases, for biopsy guidance.

An IVP (intravenous pyelogram) is a common x-ray exam of the urinary tract (kidneys, ureters and bladder).  This test can help find stones or other problems with your urinary tract.  Since these exams use radiation, some patients have concerns over the potential side effects. Technological advances in the equipment at Radiology Regional enable our medical staff to use the lowest possible doses of radiation in many tests and still provide detailed exams.  The benefits of these exams far outweigh any risks from the small amount of radiation that patients receive.