CT Scan

So your doctor says you need an MRI. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a medicalimaging technique that uses strong magnetic fields, magnetic field gradients, and radio waves to generate images of organs within a patient’s body.

If this is your first time getting an MRI, there are some things your doctor may not have mentioned that you will probably want to know. Keep these tips in mind so that you will be more mentally and physically prepared. 

1. It’s Loud

Expect loud banging sounds during your MRI. You can bring foam earplugs to help with the noise. 

2. You May Be In Longer Than Scheduled

In some cases, your procedure could go on for longer than expected so make sure you’ve had a bite to eat and used the bathroom beforehand. 

3. Don’t Wear Jewelry

An MRI uses magnetic waves so leave all your jewelry at home. 

4. Don’t Apply Makeup

This goes for lotions, deodorants, sunscreen, or nail polish. These products can contain metal that can interact with MRI magnets. 

5. Anxiety Can Set In

If you suffer from anxiety or claustrophobia, ask the ordering physician if an open MRI is a good alternative. 

6. Let Your Doctor Know About Any Tattoos

Tattoos may have dyes that can heat up in an MRI and cause skin irritation or burning. 

7. You’ll Feel Warm

Because of radio waves, some people do feel a little warmer and their body temperature may go up by a degree, but it is not a cause for concern. 

8. Don’t Move

If you move during the procedure, the images may not produce results and the whole process will have to be restarted.

9. There Is No Radiation

Unlike an X-Ray or CT Scan, an MRI uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves. It will not expose you to radiation. 

At Townsen Memorial Hospital, we use MRIs to diagnose internal problems, as well as to follow up from medical procedures without exposing the patient to the radiation of an X-ray. Depending on each patient and his or her symptoms, MRIs can be a better alternative than other types of imaging, such as CT Scans and X-Rays. We carry the 1.5 Tesla Closed High-Field MRI and the .3 Tesla Open MRI.

Townsen Memorial Hospital Is Here For You

At Townsen Memorial, safe, effective, and affordable care is our top priority. Therefore, we strive to provide the best patient experience across all Townsen Memorial affiliated sites. The high-quality care starts at our Emergency Room and carries on through our Imaging Centers, Surgery Centers, and up through our Townsen Memorial Hospital. Our medical sites are located in Houston, TX, and the surrounding areas, to provide the best care to patients in and around Harris County. To learn more, visit our website or call 1-877-494-9487.

Two of the most well-known imaging exams are CT Scans and MRIs. Both are used to capture detailed images of organs, bones, and other tissues. The biggest difference between the two is that MRIs (magnetic resonance imaging) use radio waves and CT (computed tomography) scans use X-rays.

While both are relatively low risk, there are advantages and disadvantages to each, and how doctors choose which option is best depends on the circumstances that may make one a better option over the other.

CT Scan

CT scans work much like an X-ray, only in greater detail. During the scan, the patient lies on a table that moves through a narrow scanning ring, which is taking a series of images from different angles. These images that are collected can be assembled to form three-dimensional images. These images are used to detect abnormalities in both bone and soft tissues, joint problems, tumors, cancer, heart disease, evidence of internal bleeding, or blood clots. A contrast dye may also be used for better clarity on the resulting images.

Advantages Of A CT Scan

With a CT scan, we can create an image of almost the entire body, from the neck to the thighs, in a few seconds. CTs are incredibly useful for diagnosing cancer patients, checking whether it has come back, and monitoring whether a treatment is working. CT scans are more widely used than MRIs and are typically less expensive.

Disadvantages Of A CT Scan

Because CTs use ionizing radiation, they could damage DNA and may very slightly raise the risk of developing cancer. CT risks also include harm to unborn babies and a potential reaction to the use of dyes.

MRI

MRI also creates detailed pictures of areas inside the body, but it uses radio waves and a powerful magnet to generate the pictures. During an MRI, the patient lies within a tube-like machine that produces a strong magnetic field to create its images, which are processed and stored in a computer. Similar to a CT Scan, these pictures can show the difference between normal and diseased tissue.

Advantages Of An MRI

An MRI is highly adept at capturing images that help doctors determine if there are abnormal tissues within the body. MRIs are thought to be superior in regards to the detail of the images, but where MRI really excels is showing certain diseases that a CT scan cannot detect. Some cancers, such as prostate cancer, uterine cancer, and certain liver cancers, are pretty much invisible or very hard to detect on a CT scan. Metastases to the bone and brain also show up better on an MRI. MRIs also do not use ionizing radiation, so there is no issue of raising cancer risk.

Disadvantages Of An MRI

MRIs take much longer to complete than a CT. They require the patient to lie still within a closed space for about 20 to 40 minutes. This can affect some people with claustrophobia, and the procedure is very noisy. Earplugs are given but it can still be an uncomfortable procedure for some. Possible risks include reactions to metals due to magnets and increase in body temperature during long MRIs.

How Do Doctors Decide Which Option Is Best?

Your doctor will give you a recommendation based on your symptoms whether you should get an MRI or CT scan. If you need a general image of an area like your internal organs, or have a fracture or head trauma, a CT scan will commonly be recommended. Doctors may use CT scans first for most people, unless something such as a tumor is much better seen on an MRI. But they can go back and forth as needed. If they see something on a CT scan they’re unsure about, an MRI may be recommended for further evaluation. If someone has several MRIs and is unable to lie still or hold their breath to get a good image, a CT may be suggested as an alternative. Every patient and circumstance is different and choices are guided by the principle of whether the benefits of a test outweigh its risks which is what medical imaging is all about.  

Townsen Memorial Hospital’s Imaging Centers make Townsen Memorial Hospital Houston’s premier, one-stop shop. From CT to MRI, we offer a wide variety of services operated by skilled medical professionals to provide patients with the best in imaging and patient care. We not only have technological advancements, but we also have a medical team that is always going to put you first. 

Townsen Memorial Hospital Is Here For You

At Townsen Memorial, safe, effective, and affordable care is our top priority. Therefore, we strive to provide the best patient experience across all Townsen Memorial affiliated sites. The high-quality care starts at our Emergency Room and carries on through our Imaging Centers, Surgery Centers, and up through our Townsen Memorial Hospital. Our medical sites are located in Houston, TX, and the surrounding areas, to provide the best care to patients in and around Harris County. To learn more, visit our website or call 1-877-494-9487.

Early detection can help save lives, particularly when it comes to breast cancer. During a breast cancer screening, your doctor checks your breasts for signs of cancer, such as lumps or changes in the tissue. The most common imaging tests done to check for breast cancer are mammograms and ultrasound of the breast. Women should get annual screenings to ensure nothing has changed or developed that may be a cancer risk. If your doctor finds something unusual that will require another look, e.g., a hard lump, they may send you to get medical imaging done to check whether it is cancerous or benign.

Mammography

A mammogram is a picture of the breasts taken using x-ray imaging. It is one of the most commonly used screening tools to detect breast cancer. In some cases, mammograms allow doctors to detect breast cancer up to three years before a tumor is palpable. A woman with an average risk of breast cancer can benefit from getting mammograms starting at age 40. However, a woman with a higher risk, i.e., has a family history of breast cancer, may want to start screening earlier. It is very important to know your family history so that you can take the best course of action. For instance, if your mother had breast cancer at age 45, your doctor may ask that you start your mammogram screenings ten years prior to her age of diagnosis, which is at 35. 

During a mammogram, your breast rests on a plate while a second plate gets lowered on top of the breast pushing it flat to hold it still while the x-ray machine takes the image. The radiology technician performing the test will capture images from the front and the side, taking four pictures total, two of each breast. Depending on your level of sensitivity, while the procedure may be a little uncomfortable, it should not be painful and should be done pretty quickly.

A disadvantage of a mammogram is that some women can have dense breast tissue, which makes it hard to find tumors because they both appear white on the images. In that case, an ultrasound is usually ordered alongside the mammogram. 

There are many factors that affect whether mammography is able to detect breast cancer:

• The age and weight of the patient.
• The size and type of tumor.
• Where the tumor has formed in the breast.
• How sensitive the breast tissue is to hormones.
• How dense the breast tissue is.
• The timing of the mammography within the woman’s menstrual cycle.
• The quality of the mammogram picture.
• The skill of the radiologist in reading the mammogram.

Breast Ultrasound

A breast ultrasound, or sonogram, uses sound waves to create a picture of the inside of the body. It does not use radiation so it is generally safe for those who need to avoid x-rays, such as pregnant women. A breast ultrasound can be helpful to your radiologist if they had trouble seeing your mammogram images due to dense breast tissue.

During an ultrasound, your technician will hold a wand, known as a transducer, over the breasts throughout the imaging test. The transducer sends sound waves that bounce off the breast tissue, traveling back to the transducer and creating an image.

Is One Better Than The Other?

Your doctor is very likely to order both tests as there are several notable differences between the two: 

1. The imaging modality 
2. The quality of the images produced
3. The reasons for the imaging

A breast ultrasound alone is not currently a recommended screening tool for breast cancer, because it can miss many early signs of a tumor. However, some patients might be better candidates for an ultrasound as opposed to a mammogram. Pregnant women, for instance, should usually avoid having x-rays performed unless the imaging is essential. A breast ultrasound might also be a better option for younger women, particularly those in their 20s.

Whether an ultrasound or mammogram is the right option for you depends on your needs and your doctor’s recommendations.

Townsen Memorial Hospital’s Imaging Center in Humble is now open! From Ultrasounds to Mammograms, we offer a wide variety of services operated by skilled medical professionals to provide patients with the best in imaging and patient care. We not only have technological advancements, but we also have a medical team that is always going to put you first. 

Townsen Memorial Hospital Is Here For You

At Townsen Memorial, safe, effective, and affordable care is our top priority. Therefore, we strive to provide the best patient experience across all Townsen Memorial affiliated sites. The high-quality care starts at our Emergency Room and carries on through our Imaging Centers, Surgery Centers, and up through our Townsen Memorial Hospital. Our medical sites are located in Houston, TX, and the surrounding areas, to provide the best care to patients in and around Harris County. To learn more, visit our website or call 1-877-494-9487.

Living with chronic pain can be debilitating, especially if you don’t have the answers as to why you’re feeling the way you are. Fortunately, if you are living with pain, there are a variety of things your physician can do to help determine the cause. 

Most likely, your doctor will begin with bloodwork. From there, they may order a number of tests to help diagnose the cause of your pain. We’ve listed the eight most common below, and what you can expect from each of them. 

MRI

An MRI, or Magnetic Resonance Imaging, allows your doctor to see a clear picture of your internal health without the use of X-rays. Using a large magnet, radio waves, and a computer, an MRI takes anywhere from 15 minutes to over an hour, depending on how many images your physician orders. You may be required to drink a contrast liquid to help produce clearer images. Because MRIs use a magnet, certain patients, such as those with a pacemaker, should not participate. 

CT Scan

CT scans, or Computed Tomography scans, use a combination of computers and X-rays to produce a clear image of a specific cross-section of the body. While the test is happening, you’ll be instructed to lie as still as possible, while the donut-shaped scanning device moves around your body. If it will help create clearer images, your doctor may give you a shot of solution before you begin. Like MRIs, most CT scans can take anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour. 

Discography

These tests are used to diagnose patients who are considering surgery for chronic back pain. During the test, your doctor will inject dye into the disc that is suspected of causing your pain. The dye can highlight damaged areas that may be contributing to the problem. 

Myelogram

Another test for back pain, a myelogram involves your doctor injecting dye into your spinal canal in order to identify nerve compression caused by a fracture or herniated disc.

Nerve Blocks

Nerve blocks can not only help diagnose the cause of your pain, they can help treat it as well. During the procedure, your doctor will inject an anesthetic into a nerve location where you most severely experience pain. They may rely on an imaging test to determine the best place to inject the nerve block. Your response to the procedure can inform your doctor on possible causes of pain. 

EMG

An EMG, or electromyogram, helps your physician measure muscle activity. They’ll place small needles into your muscles and check their response to electroactivity. 

Ultrasound

An ultrasound, sometimes referred to as sonography, uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of the inside of your body. The sound waves echos are then recorded and displayed as an image in real-time. 

Bone Scan

To help diagnose and keep an eye on infection, doctors use bone scans to measure problems or disorders of the bone. They’ll first inject a radioactive material into your bloodstream. The material collects in your bones and can cluster in areas that aren’t functioning normally, to help your doctor determine the cause of your pain. 

Pain Care At Townsen Memorial

At Townsen Memorial, treating your pain safely, effectively, and affordably is our top priority. We strive to provide the best patient experience across all Townsen Memorial affiliated sites. Our standard of high-quality care starts at our Emergency Room and carries on through our Imaging Centers, Surgery Centers, and through our Hospital. Our medical sites are located in Houston, TX and the surrounding areas, to provide the best care to patients in and around Harris County. To learn more, visit our website or call 1-877-494-9487.

Ultrasound can be used for numerous reasons, from examining a fetus to diagnosing pain, swelling, and infection in the body. It can also be a helpful guide forbiopsies or assess any damage after a heart attack. Ultrasound is non-invasive and does not use any radiation.

How Does An Ultrasound Work?

An ultrasound is an examination that uses sound waves to create an image. The image the ultrasound creates is called a sonogram. Ultrasound is a safe imaging method used to see tissue. Sound waves from the probe penetrate the skin, bounce off structures, and return to the probe and CPU. The computer then translates the data and produces an image. Various body tissues conduct sound differently, and some tissues absorb sound waves while others reflect them. The density of the tissue dictates the speed at which the echoes return.

Learning The Colors

Fluid is always black, and tissue is gray. The denser the tissue, the brighter white it will appear. In ultrasound, any bone is bright white. The more that the waves can penetrate something, the darker it appears on the image. Therefore, amniotic fluid and blood will look black on a sonogram. Tissue appears in shades of gray because the sound waves can only penetrate a certain amount.

Image Orientation

Have you ever had an ultrasound done and wondered what you were looking at? First, when looking at a sonogram, start at the top of the image and work your way down. The top is where the probe rests, and the image that you see shows what the organs and tissues look like from the side. For instance, if you were looking at a sonogram of a uterus, the further down the sonogram image you look, you will see the deeper tissues towards the back.

Townsen Memorial Imaging Center in Humble opened its doors in October, making it the third imaging location throughout the Houston area. Townsen offers a wide variety of services operated by skilled medical professionals to provide patients with the best in imaging and patient care. We not only have technological advancements, but we also have a medical team that is always going to put you first.

Townsen Memorial Hospital Is Here For You

At Townsen Memorial, safe, effective, and affordable care is our top priority. Therefore, we strive to provide the best patient experience across all Townsen Memorial affiliated sites. The high-quality care starts at our Emergency Room and carries on through our Imaging Centers, Surgery Centers, and up through our Townsen Memorial Hospital. Our medical sites are located in Houston, TX, and the surrounding areas, to provide the best care to patients in and around Harris County. To learn more, visit our website or call 1-877-494-9487.

When it comes to your health, taking a proactive approach by taking preventative measures can give you the best quality of life. Preventative screenings can detect issues early on which gives you the best chance at treatment. Far too many Americans are dying from preventable diseases that can almost always be treated if found early. With the medical advancements today, we all have the ability to achieve more successful outcomes than ever before. 

Lung CT

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in the US. The survival rate for lung cancer is 12% and has not changed in 40 years. However, if detected at stage I, the survival rate is 70-80%. Lung CT screening provides more detailed information than conventional X-rays making it possible to diagnose and manage lung cancer earlier and more effectively. Detection of cancers when they are much smaller are far more easily treated or cured. This test takes less than 15 minutes and requires no preparation.

Who should have this exam?

• History of smoking
• Family history of lung cancer
• Occupational exposure (Shipyard, military, asbestos, coal miners)
• Unexplained cough or fever
• As a substitute for annual chest x-ray after age 35
• History of unexplained, recurrent pneumonias
• History of multiple x-rays as a child, including multiple scoliosis surveys
• Previous history of any cancer

Virtual Colonoscopy

Colorectal cancer is the second most common cause of cancer death in the US and almost always begins with an abnormal growth, or polyp. If polyps are detected and removed before they become malignant, this deadly cancer may be escaped. Although the effectiveness of traditional colonoscopy for preventing and detecting colorectal cancer is unquestioned, many avoid them because of its invasiveness. Virtual colonoscopy is done with a CT scan and is non-invasive, quick, requires no sedation, allows patients to return to work, and is less expensive. It is also more comfortable and much faster than the traditional colonoscopy. The risks and the recovery from virtual colonoscopy are also much lower. Studies have shown this procedure was found to be just as effective, if not more effective than the traditional colonoscopy.

This test takes approximately 30 minutes and requires a preparation 48 hours prior to the exam. CO2 is placed in the colon through a small tube during the procedure so that it will evaporate and not expel.

Who should have this exam?

• Family history of colon cancer
• Family or patient history of polyps
• Those who prefer to not have a regular colonoscopy
• Men or women over age 45 with prior normal colonoscopy
• Change in bowel habits
• Blood in stool
• Unexplained weight loss or change in appetite
• Wellness screening every 5 years after age 40
• Previous history of any cancer
• History of multiple x-rays as a child, including multiple sclerosis

Breast Mammogram And Breast MRI

The survival rate of breast cancer directly correlates with the size of the cancer. The smaller the tumor, the greater the chance of survival. Finding cancer earlier can ultimately mean the difference between life and death. If you are an average risk patient, it is important to start getting annual mammograms at age 40. If you have a family history, it is recommended to start annual screenings 10 years before your first-degree relative had breast cancer.

Breast MRI is a highly sensitive tool for creating dynamic, three-dimensional images of breast tissue. It is a valuable tool in the assessment of dense breasts when used as an adjunct to traditional breast imaging modalities. A physician’s prescription is necessary for this test.

Who should have this exam?

• Inconclusive mammogram
• Breast or chest pain with inconclusive mammogram or ultrasound
• Evaluation of breast implants for possible rupture or to exclude cancer
• High risk breast patients under the age of 45
• Any patient with small dense breasts

Full Body MRI

This exam is used to evaluate the soft tissues of the body. Since tumors and inflammation produce an increased amount of water and swelling, an MRI searches for areas of abnormal water accumulation and swelling throughout the entire body. Specialized brain sequences can be used to detect early dementia, like Alzheimer’s disease. Special sequences can also be added to evaluate high-risk areas including the bile duct, liver, pancreas, uterus, ovaries, prostate gland, and testicles. MRIs involve no radiation and are good for detecting soft tissue cancers at an early stage. A physician’s prescription is necessary for this test.

This exam takes approximately 1 hour, depending on the required views. It requires administration of one Bentyl tablet the night before the exam and one on the day of the exam. The patient must also fast 6 hours prior to the exam.

Who should have this exam?

• History of neurological problems, such as atypical headache or family history of aneurysm
• Family history of stroke
• Any risk factor favoring early detection of cancer of the brain, bladder, liver, pancreas, prostate, gallbladder, bile ducts, liver, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease, or neck
• Joint or extremity problems or unexplained pain
• Wellness evaluation, especially in patients under 50
• Unexplained weight loss, malaise, fatigue
• Previous history of cancer

Cardiac Score

This exam is a CT scan of the chest that measures calcium in the coronary arteries. The score that is generated helps to determine the patient’s cardiovascular risk when combined with the traditional cardiac risk factors. Coronary calcium scoring is highly predictive of obstructive coronary artery disease. This test takes less than 15 minutes and requires no preparation.

Who should have this exam? Those 40 years old or over with increased risk for heart disease from:

• Family history of heart disease, particularly with family members with the onset of heart disease before the age of 50
• Smoking
• Elevated total or LDL cholesterol, decreased HDL cholesterol
• Elevated C-reactive protein
• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• High stress job
• Unexplained chest discomfort
• Previous history of heart disease
• Premature menopause
• Abnormal lipoprotein A
• Sedentary lifestyle

Schedule Your Preventative Screenings Today. 

Townsen Memorial Hospital Is Here For You

At Townsen Memorial, safe, effective, and affordable care is our top priority. Therefore, we strive to provide the best patient experience across all Townsen Memorial affiliated sites. The high-quality care starts at our Emergency Room and carries on through our Imaging Centers, Surgery Centers, and up through our Townsen Memorial Hospital. Our medical sites are located in Houston, TX, and the surrounding areas, to provide the best care to patients in and around Harris County. To learn more, visit our website or call 1-877-494-9487.

Resources

1. MIF, You’re Covered! The 4 Preventative Scans Worth Scheduling, accessed 12/20/2021 https://mifimaging.com/2018/10/24/youre-covered-the-4-preventative-scans-worth-scheduling/

2. ProScan, Preventative Screenings, accessed 12/20/2021 https://proscan.com/services-our-specialties/preventative-screenings/

What Is An Outpatient Imaging Center?

Imaging centers are facilities dedicated to performing medical imaging services to produce high definition images of bones, tissues, organs, blood vessels, arteries, and the nervous system. Imaging centers often include, but are not limited to, MRI, CT Scans, X-Rays, Mammography, DEXA Bone Scans, PET Scans, Electromyography, and Ultrasounds. Compared to hospitals, outpatient imaging centers have many benefits such as convenience, patient-focused care, advanced technology and being cost effective.

Convenience

Outpatient imaging centers generally have multiple locations which make them easily accessible. Their focus is imaging which means quick and easy appointment scheduling and minimal wait times.

Patient-Focused Care

Outpatient imaging centers are smaller which allows for a more personalized care. Being smaller in size also allows for easier navigation as opposed to a larger, more complex hospital building. 

Advanced Technology

Because outpatient imaging centers are specialized, it allows for highly skilled professionals and advanced technology. This ensures patients get clear and accurate images as quickly as possible.  

Cost Effective

Hospital imaging can be much pricier than at an outpatient imaging center. Average prices for MRI and CT scans at a hospital can range anywhere from 30-50% higher than at a freestanding imaging center. Therefore, patients who have not yet met their deductible could save a significant amount of their out-of-pocket costs.

Townsen Memorial Hospital Is Here For You

At Townsen Memorial, safe, effective, and affordable care is our top priority. Therefore, we strive to provide the best patient experience across all Townsen Memorial affiliated sites. The high-quality care starts at our Emergency Room and carries on through our Imaging Centers, Surgery Centers, and up through our Townsen Memorial Hospital. Our medical sites are located in Houston, TX, and the surrounding areas, to provide the best care to patients in and around Harris County. To learn more, visit our website or call 1-877-494-9487.

As scientists research and discover new trends and innovations, the landscape of medical imaging is ever-evolving. The technology that shapes and drives diagnostic imaging has grown steadily, allowing radiologists to use things like MRI, tomography and more as a window into the human body. Fortunately, this rapid growth bodes well for the future of medical imaging. Three major trends are expected to emerge, evolve and improve throughout the 2020s: 3D imaging, Artificial Intelligence, and wearable technology. 

3D Imaging

Three-dimensional imaging takes a typical CT or MRI and makes it better, allowing doctors to see a realistic rendering of the body part. Radiologists use the current CT or MRI scans, along with cinematic rendering–a process that uses augmented reality software to capture a realistic image that can be viewed from any angle. The image includes texture, which is beneficial for scans of tumors or arteries, and can aid physicians in diagnosing an illness or determining a treatment plan. 

In the future, scientists predict that the use of special eyewear along with 3D imaging will help doctors gain more important information about a specific body part or illness than ever before. And it’s likely going to be possible for doctors to 3D print a replica of the illness or body part for further use in research, diagnosis and treatment. 

All together, 3D imaging gives physicians an extremely realistic view of the medical issue at hand, requiring less guesswork when it comes to a diagnosis. 

Artificial Intelligence

A majority of companies in the medical field are now looking to Artificial Intelligence, or AI, to improve patient treatment and care. However, AI is already changing medical imaging for the better. Software is now used to develop algorithms based on patient data that can predict certain diagnoses, as well as assist radiologists in identifying issues that aren’t visible to the human eye. This helps save valuable time and resources and can lead to a more accurate diagnosis. 

Wearable Technology

Portable, or wearable, technology can be used to collect info.This technology can be used to better understand how a patient manages their health while at work or home, as well as what risks or activities could be influencing their care. 

Portable medical imaging devices, like a portable brain scanner or MRI glove are on the rise, as they are inexpensive and can assist medical professionals in making a diagnosis in any setting. If a more serious issue is discovered, the patient can be referred to the hospital or their doctor’s office for more comprehensive care. 

Townsen Memorial Hospital Is Here For You

At Townsen Memorial, safe, effective, and affordable care is our top priority. Therefore, we strive to provide the best patient experience across all Townsen Memorial affiliated sites. The high-quality care starts at our Emergency Room and carries on through our Imaging Centers, Surgery Centers, and up through our Townsen Memorial Hospital. Our medical sites are located in Houston, TX, and the surrounding areas, to provide the best care to patients in and around Harris County. To learn more, visit our website or call 1-877-494-9487. 

What Is An Outpatient Imaging Center?

Imaging centers are facilities dedicated to performing medical imaging services to produce high definition images of bones, tissues, organs, blood vessels, arteries, and the nervous system. Imaging centers often include, but are not limited to, MRI, CT Scans, X-Rays, Mammography, DEXA Bone Scans, PET Scans, Electromyography, and Ultrasounds. Compared to hospitals, outpatient imaging centers have many benefits such as convenience, patient-focused care, advanced technology and being cost effective.

Convenience

Outpatient imaging centers generally have multiple locations which make them easily accessible. Their focus is imaging which means quick and easy appointment scheduling and minimal wait times.

Patient-Focused Care

Outpatient imaging centers are smaller which allows for a more personalized care. Being smaller in size also allows for easier navigation as opposed to a larger, more complex hospital building. 

Advanced Technology

Because outpatient imaging centers are specialized, it allows for highly skilled professionals and advanced technology. This ensures patients get clear and accurate images as quickly as possible.  

Cost Effective

Hospital imaging can be much pricier than at an outpatient imaging center. Average prices for MRI and CT scans at a hospital can range anywhere from 30-50% higher than at a freestanding imaging center. Therefore, patients who have not yet met their deductible could save a significant amount of their out-of-pocket costs.

Townsen Memorial Hospital Is Here For You

At Townsen Memorial, safe, effective, and affordable care is our top priority. Therefore, we strive to provide the best patient experience across all Townsen Memorial affiliated sites. The high-quality care starts at our Emergency Room and carries on through our Imaging Centers, Surgery Centers, and up through our Townsen Memorial Hospital. Our medical sites are located in Houston, TX, and the surrounding areas, to provide the best care to patients in and around Harris County. To learn more, visit our website or call 1-877-494-9487.

Have You Ever Wondered Why There Are Different Types Of Imaging Tests?

If your doctor has ordered a medical imaging exam for you, you might have questions about the type of scan or test you will be receiving.

There are many ways doctors use imaging to diagnose or monitor a medical condition. Different types of imaging are used for different conditions and depend on your symptoms. Imaging scans are safe and carry minimal risks, but at Townsen Memorial we want you to know what to expect so that you feel prepared and comfortable.

Types Of Imaging

An X-Ray is the most widely used medical imaging technique for bone structures since their discovery. The technique shows bone breaks, fractures, arthritis, osteoporosis, and more allowing the medical staff to determine an accurate treatment plan. X-Rays are quick and painless, usually only taking 10 to 15 minutes to complete.

A CT Scan (Computed Tomography Scan) uses computer-processed combinations of differently angled X-Ray measurements to see the inside of an organ without cutting into it. They allow the medical team to take a more specialized look at the problem area. CT scans are used to detect tumors, bone trauma, heart disease, and even internal lung problems. During a CT Scan, you lie on a table that slides into an x-ray tube. The tube rotates around to take the images. This process usually only takes 10 to 15 minutes.

MRIs use magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of organs and tissues in the body. An MRI is used to diagnose internal problems, as well as a follow-up from medical procedures without exposing the patient to the radiation of an X-ray. They are used to diagnose neurological cancers, central nervous system disorders, spinal problems, and much more. During an MRI, you lie on a table that slides into the MRI machine. This process usually takes 45 minutes to an hour to complete.

An Ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of organs and structures within the body. An ultrasound is typically used during pregnancy but is also used to diagnose gallbladder disease, breast lumps, joint inflammation, and much more. During this process, a technician applies a gel to your skin, then glides a transducer over the area to be scanned, capturing the images inside your body. A ultrasound is completely painless and usually only lasts 30 minutes to an hour.

An Electromyography (EMG) measures muscle response or electrical activity in response to a nerve’s stimulation of the muscle. This test is used to reveal nerve dysfunction, muscle dysfunction, or even problems with nerve-to-muscle signal transmission. During this process, needles (called electrodes) are inserted through the skin into the muscle. The needle records the electrical activity in that muscle and translates these signals into graphs, sounds, or numerical values that are interpreted by a specialist.

A related procedure is the Nerve Conduction Velocity (NCV). This procedure measures the speed of conduction of an electrical impulse through a nerve. An NCV can determine if a nerve is damaged and is often performed at the same time as an EMG. During this process, electrode patches are attached to the skin and the nerve is stimulated.

Contact Us

Medical imaging is a useful tool for doctors to detect and diagnose certain conditions and illnesses. At Townsen Memorial, we offer a wide variety of services, including imaging tests, operated by a skilled medical staff to provide patients with the best in imaging care. We offer imaging in various locations. Our main hospital location is located in Humble, TX off of FM 1960 and Highway 59. We also have 2 imaging center locations. Townsen Memorial Imaging Center- Med Center is located at 3003 S. Loop W. Suite 140 in Houston, Texas. Townsen Memorial Imaging Center- Spring is located at 3301 Spring Stuebner Rd., Suite 120 in Spring, Texas. If you have any questions visit our website or call 1-877-494-9487.

If you’ve ever needed to get imaging done at a hospital, you’ve interacted with a radiologist. Radiologists are medical doctors that specialize in both diagnosing and treating illnesses using medical imaging.Imaging can include X-rays, MRIs, PET Scans, CTs, ultrasounds and more. Below we dive into what radiologists do, including different radiology specialties and treatment. 

Schooling

To become a radiologist, doctors go through thirteen years of schooling, including four years of medical school, a four year residency and often a one- to two-year fellowship for specialized training. Fellowships are often required for those who want to go into oncology, pediatric, or interventional radiology. Additionally, radiologists are required to continue their education throughout their careers to maintain their certification. 

Types Of Radiologists

There are three main types of radiologists: radiation, diagnostic and interventional.

Radiation: These highly-trained doctors prescribe and oversee treatment for cancer patients. They use radiation therapy to treat cancer, while also monitoring patient progress and adjusting treatments as needed. Radiation radiologists undergo many facets of training to prepare them for their roles, including extensive cancer medicine education, how to safely use radiation to treat disease, as well as how to manage any and all side effects caused by radiation. 

Diagnostic: This type of radiologist does pretty much what you would expect from their name. They use medical imaging to diagnose a patient’s condition. Acting as a supplement to your referring physician, these doctors perform, interpret and report the results of your scans, and even help your doctor devise the best treatment plan or recommend additional testing if necessary.

Diagnostic radiologists may also specialize in the following: 

• Breast Imaging/Mammograms
• Cardiovascular
• Pediatric
• Head and Neck
• Emergency
• Chest
• Neuroradiology
• Musculoskeletal
• Gastrointestinal
• Genitourinary radiology

Interventional: These doctors diagnose and treat patients with minimally-invasive techniques, such as MRIs and X-rays. After creating minute incisions in the body, they guide tiny instruments to the source of the problem to deliver treatment. Interventional radiologists treat many diseases this way, including, but not limited to:

• Cancer
• Heart disease
• Stroke
• Uterine fibroids
• And more

This technique is beneficial to patients because the procedures pose less risk and require less recovery time than more traditional surgical methods. 

Townsen Memorial Hospital Is Here For You

At Townsen Memorial Hospital in Humble, TX, our medical staff is experienced in all aspects of radiology–from cancer treatment to diagnostic imaging. We’re conveniently located off of 59N and FM 1960 at the corner of 1960 & Townsen Rd. to ensure you can arrive safely and quickly should you need medical attention. With a 24/7 emergency room and a hospital staff trained in all specialties, we’re here for you when you need us. To learn more, visit our website or call 1-877-494-9487.