Radiology Services in Bonham, Texas
Radiology uses X-rays, radioactive tracers and ultrasonic waves to detect, diagnose and guide treatment of numerous diseases and injuries. Developments in technology, computers and science are further advancing the capability to take pictures of inner body structures, tissues and organs.
The dynamic images that radiology provides are essential to both physicians and patients. This is due to their realistic depiction of the anatomy, functions and abnormalities within the body. Radiologists can interpret imaging studies, act as consultants to other specialists and perform interventional procedures.
Radiological Procedures at TMC Bonham
There are several categories of radiological procedures:
Digital Mammography
Digital mammography differs from traditional mammography, which creates images on film, by capturing electronic images of the breast and transferring the images directly to a computer. The resulting images are clearer and sharper than film images. This gives radiologists a greater opportunity to detect and evaluate small tumors and other abnormalities that may be present.
To schedule an appointment for digital mammography, call 903-640-7377.
Computerized Tomography
Computerized Tomography (CT) is a medical imaging procedure that uses computer-processed X-rays to produce tomographic images or ‘slices’ of specific areas of the body. These cross-sectional images are used for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes in various medical disciplines.
Digital geometry processing is used to generate a three-dimensional image of the inside of an object from a large series of two-dimensional X-ray images taken around a single axis of rotation. Exams can be performed with or without IV or oral contrast. IV Contrast is an agent given in the vein. It will help the physician see the veins and arteries of a specific area. Oral Contrast is a liquid that you drink. The oral contrast fills the digestive tract so it can be better viewed on the test.
Echocardiogram
An echocardiogram, or echo, is a sonogram of the heart. Echocardiography uses standard two-dimensional, three-dimensional and Doppler ultrasound to create images of the heart. It has become routinely used in the diagnosis, management and follow-up of patients with any suspected or known heart diseases. It is one of the most widely used diagnostic tests in cardiology. It can provide a wealth of helpful information, including the size and shape of the heart, pumping capacity and the location and extent of any tissue damage.
The biggest advantage to echocardiography is that it is noninvasive and has no known risks or side effects. Not only can an echocardiogram create ultrasound images of heart structures, but it can also produce accurate assessment of the blood flowing through the heart. This is done by using pulsed or continuous wave Doppler ultrasound. This enables the assessment of both normal and abnormal blood flow through the heart. Echocardiography was the first ultrasound subspecialty to use intravenous contrast.
Fluoroscopy
Fluoroscopy is an imaging technique that uses X-rays to obtain real-time moving images of the internal structures of a patient through the use of a fluoroscope. A fluoroscope consists of an X-ray source and fluorescent screen between which a patient is placed. However, modern fluoroscopes couple the screen to an X-ray image intensifier and CCD video camera allowing the images to be recorded and played on a monitor.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a medical imaging technique used in radiology to visualize internal structures of the body in detail. It can create more detailed images of the human body than possible with X-rays.
MRI provides good contrast between the different soft tissues of the body. This makes it especially useful in imaging the brain, muscles, the heart, and cancers compared with other medical imaging techniques.
Ultrasound
Ultrasound is an oscillating sound pressure wave with a frequency greater than the upper limit of the human hearing range. Ultrasonic devices are used to detect objects and measure distances. Ultrasonic imaging (sonography) is used in medicine to detect invisible flaws.
Bone Density Testing
Bone density testing uses a small dose of radiation to produce images of the spine and hips to measure bone loss from osteoporosis. It is used to assess a person’s risk for developing fractures.