Radiology
Radiology, or medical imaging, is used to help diagnose conditions and diseases within the body. At Facey, we utilize digital radiology systems which are both better for the environment and provide faster results to our radiologists for review. They also emit less radiation than traditional film radiology systems and reduce the cost of care.
Radiology technologists are responsible for performing the various radiology exams. They get formal training in various types of programs, lasting from one to four years. They may have more study or training to specialize in a certain area, such as ultrasound. Radiology technologists are certified by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists.
Imaging readings are performed by independent contracted radiologists.
Also known as a DEXA scan, this enhanced form of X-ray technology measures bone loss. Bone density testing is helpful in evaluating many medical conditions as well as the effect of prolonged medication use on bone density.
It is one of the most accurate ways to diagnosis osteopenia, a condition where bone mineral density is lower than normal, or osteoporosis, a disease where bone mineral density is reduced, and leads to an increased risk of fracture.
One woman in eight will get breast cancer in her lifetime. The statistics are hard to ignore. And one in three women over the age of 40 will be diagnosed with a breast health concern.
Mammograms use low energy X-rays to examine the breast as a diagnostic and screening tool to detect the early presence of breast cancer. Mammograms are recommended annually for women age 45 to 54. Women 55 and older can switch to mammograms every two years, or continue yearly screening.
98 percent of breast cancer patients survive the disease when diagnosed early. 85 percent of breast cancers occur in women with no family history. Starting at age 40, women should talk to their doctor about when to start screening mammograms. Doctors agree that early detection is the best defense against breast cancer. Successful treatment and survival rates for breast cancer are dramatically affected by early detection of breast cancer. If breast cancer is found early, before it has spread to lymph nodes, the five-year survival rate is almost 100%.
We understand there are many different screening recommendations. This can be confusing. If you are at average risk for breast cancer, talk with your health care provider to determine what‘s best for you.
For women who aren’t having any breast cancer symptoms, we offer a screening mammogram, an X-ray test of the breasts (mammary glands) used to screen for breast problems, such as a lump, and whether a lump is fluid-filled (a cyst) or a solid mass.
The goal of this procedure is early detection. Due to the increase in women getting screening mammograms, more and more breast cancers are being caught at the earliest, most treatable stages. If you’re scheduled for a screening mammogram but develop a symptom, please let the technologist know before the start of your exam.
Doctor referrals are not required for mammograms. Before scheduling a mammogram, we recommend that you speak with your doctor if you've experienced any recent problems or abnormalities concerning your breasts. If this is your first mammogram with us, collect prior mammograms and make them available for your radiologist, if possible, at the time of the current exam.
Some Facey locations offer 3-D mammography, also known as tomosynthesis, which detects 41% more invasive breast cancers and reduces false positives (false alarms) by up to 40%.
With tomosynthesis, an X-ray beam sweeps through the breast in a slight arc and takes pictures of multiple “slices” of breast tissues. A radiologist then looks through the series of images. Digital tomosynthesis allows the detection of small abnormalities that may be hidden by normal breast tissue. It also allows the radiologist to tell the difference between a clump of normal tissue and a true mass.
Most insurance plans cover both types of screening, but it is advisable to confirm this with your health plan before your appointment.
Ultrasound delivers high-frequency sound waves and the echoes that bounce of body tissue form images of the inner structure of the body. This non-invasive procedure is one of the most widely used diagnostic procedures in modern medicine.
Most people are familiar with how an ultrasound shows a developing baby in the womb, but ultrasound can also help determine a person's risk of heart attack or problems in the abdomen or reproductive system.
Since there are several different types of ultrasound exams, talk with your doctor to understand how to best prepare for your exam.