Diagnostic Imaging Services (Radiology)

Park Ridge Health and the Imaging Center at Laurel Park Medical Centre proudly offer the latest in diagnostic imaging technology. Available services, offered in a comfortable and friendly environment, include:

• Computed Tomography (CT): Often called CAT scanning, uses special X-ray equipment to obtain images from different angles, which are then processed by computer to show a cross-section of body tissues and organs
• 64-Slice CT scan
• Breast Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
• Doppler MRI
• Digital mammography
• 4-D ultrasound (sonography)
• Positron Emission Tomography (PET)
• DEXA bone densitometry: low-dose x-ray that checks for mineral loss and bone thinning and is the leading diagnostic tool for osteoporosis
• Digital fluoroscopy
• Non-Invasive vascular imagery
• Nuclear medicine: the modality that utilizes tracer amounts of radioactive material to visualize different organs of the body
• Ultrasound
• X-ray

The Advantages of Advanced Imaging

Radiology is the branch of medicine that uses a variety of imaging tools to diagnose and treat injury and disease. Newer imaging techniques have enhanced radiologists’ ability to visualize internal structures with improved speed and accuracy. These advances mean shorter waiting times, greater patient and physician satisfaction and improved outcomes. For example:

• The 64-slice CT scan has the ability to replace other, more invasive diagnostic testing for organs such as the heart, colon, lungs and spine.
• Improved MRI technology gives radiologists the ability to read images from organs, such as female reproductive organs and the heart, that previously were difficult to view.
• Ultrasound is a pain-free diagnostic tool that uses sound waves, not radiation, to produce an image. Because ultrasound images are captured in real-time, they can show movement of internal tissues and organs, thereby enabling radiologists to diagnose a variety of illnesses within the body.
• Digital mammography is one of the most recent advances in x-ray mammography. Digital mammography can show changes in the breast up to two years before a patient can feel them. With the ability to manipulate the image of the breast, the radiologist can see an area in question more clearly to give the best diagnosis available. Most medical experts agree that successful treatment of breast cancer often is linked to early diagnosis. The American Cancer Society guidelines advise women 40 and older to have a regular annual screening. For women at high risk the guidelines advise discussing with your healthcare provider if additional testing is needed.

We Make it Easy

At Park Ridge Health and the Imaging Center at Laurel Park Medical Centre, our diagnostic imaging technicians are registered in multiple modalities to ensure quality care. All our services are provided in a soothing and comfortable atmosphere.

Your physician will instruct you as to the specific provisions necessary for your particular exam, but preparations are usually minor. For example, prior to mammogram you should not use any type of powders, deodorant, lotion or perfumes because they can affect image quality. You may dress comfortably and will be supplied a gown to wear for the exam. Before any exam, you may be asked to fill out a short medical questionnaire.

For Appointments

Imaging services are available at three locations:

• Park Ridge Hospital: 828-681-2180
• Laurel Park Medical Centre (Hendersonville): 828-694-6725
• Skyland MRI (Arden): 828-687-8141

Same day appointments are available. Radiology is open 24 hours per day, seven days per week. Please be sure to bring your written prescription, insurance card and photo ID with you.