CMG Radiology News:

• Digital Revolution of Mammography
  
• Patients to Benefit from Cutting-Edge Imaging Technology

X-Rays (Radiographs)

With the assistance of a radiologic technologist (x-ray tech), you will be asked to change into a gown in one of the dressing rooms located close to the exam rooms. Once you have changed, an x-ray tech will take you to an exam room and explain your procedure to you. The duration of the procedure ranges from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the type of x-ray or number of films ordered by your physician. This time frame includes the procedure, plus the developing and processing of the films taken.

G.I. (Gastrointestinal)

Upper G.I. scans are performed with the assistance of barium. During an Upper G.I. procedure, which includes the esophagus, stomach and first part of the small intestine, you will be asked to drink contrast material called barium, an element that appears bright white on x-rays. This is a scheduled procedure which will include fasting after midnight prior to your appointment. The duration of this procedure ranges from 30 to 40 minutes, but the time may be extended depending on the findings.

Study of the large intestine, usually called barium enema procedures, are scheduled with a prep kit which will help prepare you for your appointment. During this procedure, liquid barium and/or air is introduced into the colon with a rectal tube. The barium coats the inside of the rectum and lower intestines, and produces a sharp, well-defined x-ray image. The duration of this procedure ranges from 20 to 30 minutes.

CT (Computed Aided Tomography)

CAT scans use special x-ray equipment to obtain cross-section images of the body and organs. This is a scheduled procedure which may or may not come with a prep kit. You may be asked to refrain from eating or drinking anything for a few hours before your appointment. Some assessments require drinking liquid material called barium the night before and one hour before your appointment time. Please be sure to follow all instructions to prevent any rescheduling. The duration of the appointment ranges from 20 to 40 minutes.

Ultrasound

Ultrasound imaging, also called sonography, is a method of obtaining images from inside the body through the use of high frequency sound waves. This is a scheduled procedure that may or may not come with a prep kit. For some scans, you may be instructed not to eat or drink anything for as many as 12 hours prior to your appointment. The duration of the appointment ranges from 15 to 30 minutes.

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