Advanced bone densitometry (DEXA scanning) is available at the Diagnostic Center at Morristown-Hamblen West. This imaging procedure detects subtle changes in bone density that might indicate the beginnings of osteoporosis. The diagnostic information is faster and more accurate than older procedures.

Computed Axial Tomography is also known as a CT or CAT scan. It is an imaging test that uses X-rays and computerized imagery to make detailed images of the body, including bones, muscles, fat, and organs.

CT technologists at Morristown-Hamblen West’s Diagnostic Center are registered with the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists® (ARRT), with an advanced registry in computed tomography.

CT services include:

• Routine head, neck, chest, abdomen and pelvis studies
• Orthopedic studies for spine and extremities
• Pediatric studies
• CT angiography – all arterial studies, e.g., circle of Willis, carotid, renal, mesenteric, aorta and run-offs (to assess vascular conditions)
• Coronary artery studies
• Biopsies and drainages

Fluoroscopy is a technique to obtain moving X-ray images of a patient. A dye that shows up on X-rays is injected or swallowed to outline blood vessels or organs as it moves through the body. This process allows the physician to see images inside the body on a TV monitor.

Fluoroscopy is often used to see the digestive tract. It also can help doctors locate a foreign object in the body, set a broken bone or position a catheter or needle for a procedure.

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in both men and women worldwide, and accounts for more U.S. cancer deaths than those from breast cancer, colon cancer, and prostate cancer combined.

Persons at high risk have a new weapon in the fight against lung cancer: Low-dose CT screening. Because this screening provides earlier detection of potential cancers, studies have shown it can lower the risk of death from lung cancer by 20 percent in people who are at high risk.

LDCT lung screening is an easy screening exam:.

• The exam takes less than 10 seconds.
• No medications are given and no needles are used.
• Patients can eat before and after the exam.
• Patients do not need to change clothes as long as the clothing on your chest does not contain metal.

CT Exam Preparation:

• Each patient will need to bring a complete written list of current medications.
• Arrive 15 minutes prior to the scheduled appointment to register.
• Inform technologist or RN if there is a possibility you are pregnant.
• When patients arrive at the Diagnostic Center, they will be asked about their medical history by a nurse or technologist. If lab work is needed, it will be completed prior to the exam

Morristown-Hamblen West Diagnostic Center provides mammography screenings and breast ultrasounds to detect changes in breast tissue before the changes can be felt. Our Breast Imaging Center is the only ACR-certified Breast Imaging Center of Excellence between Johnson City and Knoxville, Tennessee.

The Diagnostic Center has two digital mammography units that use the latest mammogram technology to obtain clearer images for accurate diagnosis.

The user-friendly design of the new equipment means greater comfort for women during breast cancer screenings. The new technology cuts scan time in half, allowing patients to be seen more quickly, and provides enhanced images for the physicians and technologists at Morristown Hamblen Healthcare System.

We also have an extra set of “eyes” on your images with our iCAD review software. This software allows our board-certified radiologist to compare your breast images to thousands of known abnormalities.

Annual screening mammograms are recommended for women beginning at age 40. A physician referral is not required for screening mammograms, and online scheduling is available.

At Morristown-Hamblen West Diagnostic Center, you can feel confident that your exam is performed with the highest quality and best possible care.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a non-invasive procedure that uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create detailed images of the body. MRI is often used to diagnose many types of sports injuries, as well as to provide clear pictures of the brain, abdomen, and cervical, thoracic and lumbar spine. Unlike conventional radiography and CT, no radiation is used.

Morristown Hamblen Healthcare System has a 1.5T MRI magnet at the hospital (weight limit: 350 pounds). We offer a 1.5T MRI magnet at Morristown Regional Diagnostic Center (weight limit: 550 pounds).

All MRI technologists at Morristown-Hamblen Healthcare System are American Registry of Radiologic Technologists® with advanced registry in MRI.

Our MRI services include:

• Neuro – Brain and Spine
• Orthopedics
• Vascular
• Abdomen (liver, spleen, pancreas, kidney)

During an MRI, you will lie in a tube-like machine while the scan happens non-invasively and painlessly. If you are claustrophobic, notify your physician prior to your procedure. Our technologists strive to make our procedures as comfortable as possible for our patients.

If cancer cells are detected, the physician may perform stereotactic biopsies. A stereotactic breast biopsy requires a specialized mammography machine that helps guide the radiologist’s instruments to the abnormal growth site.

Ultrasound imaging, also called sonography, uses high-frequency sound waves to obtain images of the inside of the body. Benefits of ultrasound include comprehensive and reliable exam data, faster tests and improved patient comfort. Ultrasound exams do not use radiation.

Our ultrasound services include:

• Gynecology
• Vascular
• Obstetrics
• Biopsies and drainages
• Breast ultrasound
• Other general ultrasound procedures

Exam preparation:

• Each patient will need to bring a complete written list of current medications.
• Arrive 15 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment to register.
• Abdominal ultrasound — No food or drink for eight hours prior to the exam
• Pelvic ultrasound — A full bladder is required. Patients should drink 40 ounces of fluids prior to the exam.

X-rays are a type of radiation called electromagnetic waves. X-ray imaging creates pictures of the inside of your body by emitting individual particles through the body that can then be detected and imaged.

We focus on radiation protection and minimizing patient exposure during X-ray imaging.