Morristown-Hamblen West

Advanced bone densitometer equipment is available at Morristown-Hamblen to detect subtle bone changes that might indicate osteoporosis’s beginnings. 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.

All of Morristown’s CT Technologists 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 – spines and extremities
• Pediatric studies
• CT Angiography – all arterial studies (circle of Willis, carotid, renal, mesenteric, aorta and run-offs)
• Coronary artery studies
• Biopsies and drainages

Fluoroscopy is a technique for obtaining “live” 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.

Now those at high risk have a new weapon in the fight against lung cancer. It’s called Low Dose CT screening and because of early detection, studies have shown it can lower the risk of death from lung cancer by 20% in people who are at high risk.

LDCT lung screening is one of the easiest screening exams you can have.

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

CT Exam Preparation:

• Each patient will need to bring with them a complete written list of medications they are currently taking.
• Arrive 15 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment to register.
• Inform technologist or RN if there is a possibility you are pregnant.
• When the patient arrives to the CT department, 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 that are difficult to feel by hand. Our two mammography units are digital, using the latest mammogram technology to obtain clearer images for proper diagnosis.

The user-friendly design of the new equipment means greater comfort for women while receiving breast cancer screenings and diagnoses. The new technology cuts scan time in half, allowing patients to be seen more quickly, and it 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 the iCAD review software. This aids the board-certified radiologist by comparing your breast images to thousands of known abnormalities. You can feel confident that your exam is performed with the highest quality and best 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 provide clear pictures of the brain, abdomen, cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spines. Unlike conventional Radiography and CT, no radiation is used. Morristown Hamblen Healthcare System as a 1.5T MRI magnet in the hospital with a weight limit of 350 pounds. We offer a 1.5T MRI magnet at Morristown Regional Diagnostic Center with a weight limit of 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)

If you are claustrophobic, please discuss with your physician.

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 more 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
• Other general ultrasound procedures

Exam preparation:

• Each patient will need to bring with them a complete written list of medications they are currently taking.
• Arrive 15 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment to register.
• Ultrasound Abdomen — The patient should have no food or drink for 8 hours prior to exam.
• Ultrasound Pelvis –Full bladder is required for this exam. Patient should drink 40 ounces of fluids prior to 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 then get detected.

Radiation protection and minimization of patient exposure is always considered for patient safety.