Northwest Imaging Center is a state-of-the-art imaging center offering MRI scanning, CT scanning, Ultrasound and General Radiography. Our goal is same day service and a two hour report turn-around time. Northwest Imaging is a preferred provider for most major insurance companies.
- 64 Slice CT Scanning
- Open Bore MRI Scanning
- Ultrasound with 3D & 4D Imaging
- General Radiography (CR Digital Imaging)
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What is Computed Tomography?
Computed Tomography scans (also known as CT or CAT scans) use special X-ray equipment to obtain information from different angles around the body. Computers are then used to process the information and create cross-sectional images that appear as "slices" of the body and organs
What should I expect?
During the exam you will lie on a table that will move you into the doughnut-shaped scanner. Your technologist will watch you through an observation window and will be able to communicate with you at all times. You may hear humming, buzzing, or clicking sounds as the CT machine moves to reposition you for additional images. CT scans are painless, but some exams require injection of a contrast agent through an IV that will be started before the exam in either your arm or hand area by a technologist. If you are having an abdomen and/or pelvic exam you may be required to drink contrast fluid 30 mins-1 hour prior to exam time. Remaining still is very important in order to obtain clear images.
How should I prepare?
Before some exams, you may be asked to avoid normal eating or drinking for a period of time. You should continue medications prescribed by your doctor unless informed otherwise. Diabetic patients may need to delay their medication until after they have eaten in order to avoid an insulin reaction. You may be asked to wear a hospital gown and may have to remove items such as glasses, jewelry, dentures, hearing aids, etc. Women should always inform their technologist if there is any possibility that they are pregnant.
What if I need a Contrast Injection?
CT contrast is an organically bound iodine material that is used to make some abnormalities easier to see and will be delivered through a small IV started in you arm or hand by the technologist. Northwest Imaging uses only non-ionic contrast (the safest kind), but with all contrast agents there is some potential for allergic reaction. Be sure to tell your technologist if you've had a reaction to contrast in the past or if you are particularly sensitive to medications. If you take Glucophage, Glucovance, or any other type of metformin medication to regulate your diabetes, you will need to stop taking it for 48 hours after your exam.
How do I get the results?
After your study is over, the images will be evaluated by one of our board-certified radiologists with expertise in CT imaging. A final report will be sent to your doctor, who can then discuss the results with you in detail. Should you have any questions regarding your CT scan, we will be happy to discuss them with you.
How to prepare for your CT scan >>
What is an MRI?
MRI uses radio waves, a strong magnetic field and a computer to generate detailed, cross-sectional images of human anatomy. Because it produces better tissue images than x-rays can, MRI is most commonly used for brain, spine, thorax, vascular system, and musculoskeletal system (including the knee and ankle).
How should I prepare for an MRI procedure?
Because the strong magnetic field used for MRI will pull on any metal object implanted in your body, Our staff will ask about all surgeries you have had. Some surgical implants may be a contraindication to MRI, while other surgical procedures may require a specific amount of time to pass before an MRI can be performed. Examples of surgeries that require special attention include: aneurysm clips, ear implants, brain implants, pacemakers, heart valves, stints, and intrauterine devices (IUD).
How is the procedure performed?
You will be comfortably positioned on a special table that slides into the short 4-feet bore of the MRI system opening, where the magnetic field is centrally located. The roomy 36-inch bore is open on both ends, and is well-lit in a room that provides an atmosphere that is open, "airy", and comfortable. The technologist will perform the MRI exam at the control unit in an adjoining room. You will hear tapping noises during the exam, but earplugs are provided. You will be asked to remain still during the imaging process. You will be able to communicate with the technologist through an intercom. Special needs may be accommodated with innovative and improved positioning techniques for the claustrophobic patient such as: feet first for certain procedures, mirrors for visual comfort, and more.
In some cases, a contrast material may be injected into a vein in your arm to highlight internal organs and structures to make tumors, vessels and scar tissue brighter. The contrast is filtered out of your bloodstream by your kidneys and eliminated from your body in your urine within 24 hours. Side effects are rare, but information will be provided by your MRI technologist
Frequently asked questions about MRI
Is any special preparation required?
Most MRI exams do not require any preparation. If special preparations are necessary you will be told when you schedule your appointment.
How long will the exam take?
The average exam takes 30 minutes. It may take more or less time depending on what part of the body is being studied.
I'm claustrophobic. How far do I go into the scanner?
In order to get the best pictures possible, the part of the body being studied has to be in the middle of the scanner. Therefore, if you are having a brain MRI, your head will have to be in the middle of the scanner. If you are having an ankle MRI, your ankle will be in the scanner, but your head will not be. If you have severe claustrophobia, ask your doctor for some medication to help you relax during the scan. Please have someone accompany you who can drive you home if you do take any medication.
Do I really have to hold still?
Yes. An MRI exam is composed of a series of images. Each series takes 3 to 5 minutes. Any movement during this time causes the pictures to be "blurry" and limits the radiologist's ability to interpret the study. The exam focuses on a specific part of the body. If you move, the area we are focusing on may no longer be in the proper position.
I have metal in my body from prior surgery. Can I have an MRI?
Most people who have metal in their body after surgery can have an MRI. For example, patients with hip or knee replacements can have an MRI almost immediately after surgery. Other implanted devices may require more time after surgery. However, certain devices can never go into an MRI machine. Heart pacemakers and some implanted pumps and nerve stimulators cannot go into the MRI scanner. Some brain aneurysm clips (particularly older ones) also cannot go into the scanner. If you have had any prior surgery, you must let the technologist know prior to the scan. Also, if there is any chance there may be metal in any part of your body from a prior injury or from grinding metal, please inform the technologist prior to the scan.
How and when will I get the results of the exam?
After the scan is finished, a board-certified radiologist will interpret the study and send a report to your doctor usually within 24 hours.
How to prepare for your MRI scan >>
What is Ultrasound?
Ultrasound is a highly effective, safe, and painless imaging technique used to view soft structures in the body. Using high frequency sound waves that reflect off of a body structure to create an image on a monitor. The echoes from the sound waves create images that show size, distance, and uniformity of an organ. The images are shown in real time on your monitor screen. We offer 3D Ultrasound technology, which provides a clearer and more detailed image for the radiologist to view. It also allows for a quicker, more comfortable exam for you.
What should I expect when I arrive?
Your exam will be performed by a board-certified technologist that has specialized in Ultrasonography. Your technologist will describe to you what will take place during the test. Sound waves are captured using a device called a transducer, which she will place over your skin. In order to make the device more comfortable for you, she will place a small amount of lubricant onto your skin that may feel cold at first. Our Ultrasound suites are designed with patient comfort in mind, and our technologists are there to help you feel relaxed as well as informed throughout your exam.
How long will the exam take?
Your exam should take between 30 minutes and 2 hours, depending on the type of test being performed. You should allow yourself about 15 extra minutes for registration and changing.
What happens after the exam?
Your exam will be interpreted by a board-certified radiologist with many years of training and professional experience. A report will be sent to your doctor within 24 hours and he or she will contact you with the results. Your physician will review your clinical history in conjunction with exam results to provide you with the most accurate diagnosis and optimal treatment plan.
Special concerns -
Please note that some ultrasound exams require you to have a full bladder. For those exams, it is very important to have already consumed the necessary fluid before you arrive. It is also very important to arrive to your exam on time, ensuring a quick and comfortable experience.
How to prepare for your Ultrasound >>
Conventional radiography (x-ray) is a simple, painless procedure that enables the radiologist to analyze the bony and soft tissue anatomy for diagnosis. The average x-ray study takes 15-20 minutes. A very low dose of radiation is used, which make x-rays extremely safe diagnostic tests.
How to prepare for your X-ray >>
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