Radiology

Lackey now offering more comfortable 3D mammography

Radiology

(601) 469-4151

Ultrasound

An ultrasound test uses reflected sound waves to produce an image of the organs in the body. The words “ultrasound study”, “ultrasound exam”, and “sonogram” all mean the same thing. An ultrasound does not use x-rays and there are no documented risks associated with ultrasound.

During an ultrasound the patient is asked to lie down on the exam table. A gel is applied to the part of the body being examined and then a small instrument called a transducer or probe is passed over that area by the sonographer. The patient may be asked to move into different positions or to hold their breath to improve imaging. Some ultrasound examinations require special preparations, which will be explained during scheduling.

Computed Tomography (CT) or (CAT Scan) – 16 – Slice Scanner

Computed Tomography is a type of radiologic exam where the x-ray source rotates around the patient. A computer then interprets the information and creates a cross-sectional image or a “slice”. Computed tomography is probably better known as CT scan or CAT scan.

The patient is asked to lie on a table and the area being scanned will be moved into the scanner. For most exams the patient will lie on his or her back. Some of the exams require the patient to hold their breath. Also depending on the type of exam requested, an intravenous contrast may be administered. Preparation is required for some examinations, which may involve drinking an oral contrast and/or fasting. These preparations will be explained at the time of scheduling.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

MRI is a way of taking pictures of your body and its chemical make-up. It’s a safe way to make an image of your body that does not use radiation. It uses a strong magnetic field supplied by a magnet and radiowaves. There are no known biological hazards associated with MRI.

An MRI examination requires the patient to lie on a table. The area of the body to be scanned will be positioned in the center of the magnet. The patient will enter the magnet either feet or head first, depending on the type of exam being performed. A small device called a surface coil may be placed near the part of the body to be scanned in order to improve the images. 

Benefits include:

• We are pleased to offer a 1.5T high-field, wide-bore MRI which provides high-field image quality, diagnostic confidence and comfort for patients.
• Almost one foot of open space between the patient’s head and the magnet
• Bore opening of 70 cm in diameter
• Many exams can be completed with the patient’s head outside the bore
• Lightweight coils enable shorter acquisition time and improve patient tolerance and cooperation
• Accommodates patients up to 550 pounds.

Echocardiogram

An echocardiogram (echo=sound + card=heart + gram=drawing) is an ultrasound test that can evaluate the structures of the heart, as well as the direction of blood flow within it. Technicians specially trained in echocardiography produce the images and videos, often using a special probe or transducer that is placed in various places on the chest wall, to view the heart from different directions. Cardiologists, or heart specialists, are trained to evaluate these images to assess heart function and provide a report of the results. The echocardiogram is just one of the many tests that can be done to evaluate heart anatomy and function.

Digital Mammography

Lackey now offering more comfortable 3D mammography

At Lackey Memorial Hospital, we are proud to offer digital mammography in our radiology department. Digital and conventional mammography both use x-rays to produce an image of the breast; however, in conventional mammography, the image is stored directly on film, whereas, in digital mammography, an electronic image of the breast is stored as a computer file. This digital information can be enhanced, magnified, or manipulated for further evaluation more easily than information stored on film.