Radiology

Digital X-Ray

To maximize patient care and efficiency, we operate direct digital x-ray systems at our Shreveport & Bossier city clinics. Direct digital x-ray allows our trained and professional technologists to complete your scan in seconds and to electronically and simultaneously transfer the images to your physician for review and analysis.

Digital X-Ray technology produces a higher image quality and resolution, providing better diagnostic capabilities to your physician. This system also minimizes risks to patients.

CT Scans

Computed tomography (CT scan or CAT scan) is a noninvasive diagnostic imaging procedure that uses a combination of X-rays and computer technology to produce horizontal, or axial, images (often called slices) of the body. A CT scan shows detailed images of different parts of the body, including the bones, muscles, fat, and organs. CT scans are more detailed than standard X-rays.

Many of our surgeons use CT scans to create pre-surgical templates- particularly with Mako Smart Robotics.

https://patients.stryker.com/mako-robotic-arm-assisted-technology

MRI

In orthopedics, an MRI may be used to examine bones, joints, and soft tissues such as cartilage, muscles, and tendons for injuries or the presence of structural abnormalities or certain other conditions, such as tumors, inflammatory disease, congenital abnormalities, osteonecrosis, bone marrow disease, and herniation or degeneration of discs of the spinal cord. MRI may be used to assess the results of corrective orthopedic procedures. Joint deterioration resulting from arthritis may be monitored by using magnetic resonance imaging.

Otrhopedic Specialists utilizes an open MRI- The Hitachi Medical Systems Echelon Oval 1.5 T.

https://healthcaresolutions-us.fujifilm.com/mrict/echelon-oval-15t

Before you have an MRI

Because MRI uses powerful magnets, the presence of metal in your body can be a safety hazard if attracted to the magnet. Even if not attracted to the magnet, metal objects can distort the MRI image. Before having an MRI, you will complete a questionnaire that includes whether you have metal or electronic devices in your body.

Unless the device you have is certified as MRI safe, you might not be able to have an MRI. Devices include:

  • Metallic joint prostheses
  • Artificial heart valves
  • An implantable heart defibrillator
  • Implanted drug infusion pumps
  • Implanted nerve stimulators
  • A pacemaker
  • Metal clips
  • Metal pins, screws, plates, stents or surgical staples
  • Cochlear implants
  • A bullet, shrapnel or any other type of metal fragment
  • Intrauterine device

How you prepare for your MRI:

Before an MRI exam, eat normally and continue to take your usual medications, unless otherwise instructed. You will typically be asked to change into a gown and to remove things that might affect the magnetic imaging, such as:

  • Jewelry
  • Hairpins
  • Eyeglasses
  • Watches
  • Wigs
  • Dentures
  • Hearing aids
  • Underwire bras
  • Cosmetics that contain metal particle