X-Ray
Podiatric x-ray exams may be taken in our office to diagnose conditions in the feet or ankles. It is the oldest and most frequently used form of medical imaging. X-ray is the fastest and easiest way for a physician to view and assess broken bones. It can also be used to diagnose and monitor the progression of degenerative diseases.

Unlike most forms of radiation, x-rays can pass through body tissue, making it possible to provide images of internal structures without performing surgery. During the procedure, electromagnetic radiation passes through the body onto film. Dense structures such as bone absorb most of the radiation and appear white on developed film. Structures that are less dense appear in lighter shades of gray and black.

There is little reason to worry about the small amount of radiation you will be exposed to when you receive an x-ray. However, if you are pregnant or suspect that you may be, you should tell your physician or technologist before the test is performed, as special precautions may have to be taken.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
MRI stands for Magnetic Resonance Imaging. It is a diagnostic imaging test that uses strong magnet and radiofrequency waves to produce images of internal organs and structures. MRI is a non invasive procedure, however, your physician may request a contrast agent be used to better visualize organs or structures. If this is requested you will receive an injection of the contrast agent during your examination.

It is essential that the patient alert the technologist if they have a pacemaker, surgical clips, metal objects, or a prosthesis. The technologist will determine with the help of the radiologist if the examination should be performed.

The technologist will position you on the exam table and move the table into the magnet. You will hear a knocking sound that occurs when the images are being acquired. The length of time you will be on the table depends on the type of study you are having.

Computed Tomography (CT)
CT stands for Computed Tomography. CT gives detailed information by taking cross-sectional images throughout the body on a spiral scanner. CT scan, like conventional x-ray, uses radiation. Depending on the type of exam your physician orders, you may have to drink a flavored liquid before your exam(oral contrast) and/or receive an injection of contrast material. Contrast allows for better visualization of certain organs within the body. The CT equipment has a table that goes through a "doughnut". Exams take 5 minutes to 20 minutes.

The following is an explanation of a typical exam (exams may differ based on individual patients): You will be lying down on an examining table and a technologist will assist you into a comfortable position for your exam. A contrast medium may be injected at this point. If having a head CT, head may be cradled as the slightest motion may hinder image quality. You will be moved into the CT scanner. The technologist can hear and see you at all times. You may hear low "motorized" sounds. You will be moved into the CT scanner. The technologist will assist you in getting off the table. Your exams will be interpreted by the radiologist and your physician will receive the results.

Nuclear Medicine
Nuclear Medicine is a radiological field that uses safe and painless techniques to image the body and treat disease. Nuclear Medicine techniques can make it possible to gather information on the function and structure of the organs that may otherwise require surgical intervention or other tests. Nuclear medicine is commonly used to measure or detect orthopedic injuries.

Nuclear Medicine uses very small doses of radioactive materials to diagnose and treat disease. These materials are attracted to specific organs, bones, or tissues, producingemissions that are then detected by a special type of camera. This camera then transforms these emissions into images that can be read and interpreted by the radiologist.

The amount of radioactive materials introduced into the the body is small and is eliminated quickly from the body. The amount of radiation is comparable to that of a traditional x-ray. If you are pregnant or think you may be, you should tell your physician before undergoing any radiological procedure.