Radiology

Radiology utilizes imaging systems such as X-rays, ultrasound, MRI, CT scans, fluoroscopy and other technology to diagnose and treat diseases and illnesses. Physicians in this specialty are called Radiologists. Their role is to diagnose various cancers, vascular problems, blood clots, peripheral vascular disease (PVD), peripheral arterial disease, angioplasty, varicose veins, hypertension, and venous disease among others. Radiology enables practitioners to perform numerous procedures to address these complications.

PMA's Imaging Center offers excellent imaging, reporting and convenience. You'll receive the right test the first time. Our on-site radiologists provide immediate physician interpretations and patient consultations. Our state-of-the-art system premits filmless transmission of images to appropriate subspecialists. At the same time, the system provides your referring doctor with instant access to your images and reports whether they're at their office or their home computer. The images provided by PMA's Imaging Center are exceptional in quality.

Premier Medical Associates' Imaging Patient Services Provide:

• Appointments at your convenience.
• Prompt and easy registration.
• Comfortable, private environment.
• Broad insurance participation.
• Ample, free parking.

High-quality Tests & Images Available:

• MRI/MRA (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
• CT Scans (Computed Tomography or CAT Scans)
• CT Angiograms (CTA)
• Ultrasound
• Bone Density/Dexa Scan
• Mammograms

MRI/MRA (Magnetic Resonance Imaging/Magnetic Resonance Angiogram)

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses a magnetic field and pulses of radio wave energy to take pictures of organs and structures inside the body. MRI often shows information and problems that cannot be seen with other imaging methods. In some cases a dye may be used to show pictures of certain organs or structures more clearly.  MRI can be used to see problems such as bleeding, blockage, infection, tumors, or injury to the blood vessels, brain, glands, joints and organs.

A magnetic resonance angiogram (MRA) is a type of MRI that takes pictures of the blood vessels inside the body. With MRA, both the blood flow and the condition of the blood vessel walls can be seen. The test is commonly used to examine the blood vessels connected to the brain, kidneys and legs.

Bone Densitometry

A bone densitometry test uses X-rays to measure the density of bone. Specifically, it measures the grams of calcium and other minerals packed into a segment of bone. It is used to detect osteopenia or osteoporosis and to predict the risk of fracture. It is recommended for:

• Post-menopausal women not taking estrogen
• Post-menopausal women over 5’7” or less than 125 pounds
• Anyone with a history (personal or maternal) of hip fracture or smoking
• Men with clinical conditions associated with bone loss
• Anyone using medications known to cause bone loss
• Anyone with type 1 diabetes, liver disease or kidney disease
• Anyone with a family history of osteoporosis
• Anyone with x-ray evidence of vertebral fracture or other signs of osteoporosis
• Anyone with a thyroid or parathyroid condition
• Anyone who has experienced a fracture due to mild trauma (not severe)

Mammography

A mammogram is an x-ray exam of the mammary glands used to detect breast problems. Mammograms can identify lumps in the breast and whether the lump is fluid-filled (a cyst) or a solid mast. The procedure is done primarily to detect breast cancer, which is most easily treated when discovered at an early stage. Many small and potentially cancerous tumors cannot be felt by the patient or by a health professional, but can be seen on a mammogram.

CT/CTA

Computed tomography (CT) uses x-rays and a computer to generate pictures of a section of the body. CT scans, as they’re commonly called, show bodily organs in more detail and with more clarity than regular x-rays.

Computed tomography angiography (CTA) provides a view of specific blood vessels. CT and CTA scans help determine problems in the body and how far a disease may have spread. They can also show the body’s response to treatment. CT and CTA scans can be performed on the abdomen brain, chest, neck, abdomen, pelvis, spine, arms and legs.

Ultrasound

Ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to study bodily organs and structures. They are used to view the blood vessels, heart, kidney, liver, and other organs. Ultrasound tests are used during pregnancy to examine the fetus. Unlike x-rays, ultrasound does not expose the patient to radiation.

Ultrasounds are performed by specially trained doctors, Ultrasound Technologist or Ultrasonographer. They utilize a transducer, which is a handheld device that sends sound waves into specific parts of the body. The sound waves bounce off the bodily tissue and are captured by the transducer and used to create an image.

X-ray

X-rays use electromagnetic radiation to create images of the body on a film called a radiograph. Parts of the body absorb X-rays at different rates, causing them to form different images on the film. X-rays are used to see broken bones, cavities in the teeth, problems in the lungs, abdominal problems, and many other abnormalities. The amount of radiation a patient is exposed to during an X-ray exam is very small. X-rays are completely painless and can detect problems very quickly.