Diagnostics
Imaging
The IVCH diagnostic imaging department provides the full range of services
listed below.
Digital X-rays
This is the original field from which radiology developed and it is still
the most commonly employed form of radiology. All x-ray procedures at
IVCH are completed with a digital radiology system.
Computed Tomography (CT)
A CT, or CAT, scan is a diagnostic imaging procedure that uses a combination
of x-rays and computer technology to produce cross-sectional images of
the body. IVCH uses the state-of-the-art Toshiba Aquilion™ PRIME
160-slice CT scanner that is much faster and safer than standard CT scanners.
Read more about this amazing machine.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
This technique uses a magnetic field and radio waves to make cross-sectional
images of the body, which are then assembled into a 3-D image by a computer.
The Toshiba MRI unit at IVCH has two key features that were designed with
patient comfort in mind. First, the device is more open for claustrophobic
patients, and minimizes the feeling of being inserted into a long, tube-like
machine. Instead, the IVCH unit has the shortest MRI magnet available,
which is mounted on an ultra-short bore platform. Secondly, the system
is equipped with Toshiba’s patented Pianissimo™ noise-reduction
technology, which effectively reduces scan noise by as much as 90 percent.
Read more about MRI procedures.
Mammography
Mammography remains the gold standard for screening for early-stage breast
cancer. Digital mammography lets our radiologists capture and manipulate
images so abnormalities can be seen more easily. IVCH uses a CAD-computer-aided
detection system, which puts mammograms into digital form and then uses
computer software to search for abnormal areas of density, mass or calcification.
The system highlights suspicious areas, alerting our cancer doctors to
the need for further analysis.
Stereotactic and Mammotome Breast Biopsies
Noninvasive breast biopsies can be performed at IVCH on an outpatient basis
with its stereotactic breast biopsy system, requiring no anesthesia or
hospital stay.
Bone Density Imaging
Commonly known as a DEXA scan, this test is used to identify patients who
have osteoporosis or osteopenia. It is a safe and painless x-ray that
compares your bone density to the norm for people of your age, gender
and race. Instant vertebral assessment (IVA) provides high-resolution
images to reveal existing vertebral deformities.
Echocardiology
High-frequency sound waves create images of your heart. Resting echoes
and stress echoes are performed to evaluate the function of your heart.
Nuclear Medicine
Nuclear medicine is a medical specialty that uses radioactive tracers (radiopharmaceuticals)
to assess bodily functions and to diagnose and treat disease. Specially
designed cameras allow doctors to track the path of these radioactive tracers.
Ultrasound
Also referred to as a sonogram, this technology uses high-frequency sound
waves to create an image of many internal structures of the body. Due
to their reliance on sound waves instead of radiation, ultrasounds/sonograms
are completely safe and painless, making them ideal for diagnostic applications,
vascular studies, and abdominal and pelvic biopsies. OB doctors also commonly
use them to monitor fetal development during pregnancy, and many interventional
procedures are done under ultrasound/sonogram guidance. IVCH offers 2D,
3D and 4D sonography options.
PET/CT
Positron emission tomography (PET), and CT scans help doctors determine
the exact location and stage of cancerous tissue in the body and can prevent
unnecessary surgery and biopsies as well as inappropriate treatments.
PET/CT scans are performed locally at the
Valley Regional Cancer Center in Peru.
Contact Us
815.780.3431
Location
If you're scheduled for an x-ray, CT scan, MRI or other diagnostic
imaging procedure at IVCH, first check in at our admitting area in the
East Addition. Then proceed down the first floor hallway. You will find
the diagnostic imaging department on the right side, across the hall from
the EKG department and the IVCH Pain Clinic.