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Radiology & Imaging

Services

Adirondack Radiology Associates physicians provide both general diagnostic radiology services and radiology sub-specialty services. Be assured all our physicians are trained in a variety of specialties. All of our physicians are Board Certified by the American College of Radiology (ACR) and have received extensive training in a general or subspecialty area.

Computed Tomography

Computed Tomography (CT) is an X-Ray technique that uses a rotating X-Ray tube and electronic detectors to create cross-sectional images. With modern CT scanners, many cross-sections are obtained with each rotation. Special-purpose image processing workstation can then create a three-dimensional image of the body structures from the cross-sectional "slices", allowing our radiologists to "see" inside your body in great detail.

Some CT examinations require that you drink or have an injection of a "contrast agent" or "contrast media". In most cases, you will be notified in advance if either type of contrast media will be used as part of your CT scan.

MRI

MRI uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to create cross-sectional images or "slices" of the human body. MRI offers several benefits over other cross-sectional imaging methods:

  • It can acquire direct views of the body in any orientation
  • It does not use x-ray radiation
  • It provides images with excellent contrast detail of soft tissues and anatomic structures
  • It can create detailed images of blood vessels, often without the use of injected contrast media

Precautions and Contraindications to MRI Examination:

You will be contacted by telephone prior to your examination to go over a screening questionnaire (if we cannot contact you, this can be filled out on arrival - please arrive 15 minutes earlier than scheduled). The completion of the screening questionnaire ensures your safety during your exam. 

Ultrasound

Ultrasound imaging that generates high-frequency sound waves that are projected into the body. The ultrasound machine constructs both live video and still pictures of the body area being scanned.

X-Ray

An X-Ray creates images of your bones and internal organs. X-Rays are most often used to detect bone or joint problems or to check the heart and lungs.
 

Let The Technologist Know:

  • If you are pregnant or suspect you may be
  • If you have had an X-Ray of this part of your body before
  • If you have metal in the part of your body being imaged

Mammography

Mammography is an X-Ray examination of breast tissue. The image produced is called a mammogram. In most cases, mammograms are performed as a screening study to detect breast cancer. Mammograms are also performed to try to determine the nature of lumps felt on palpation.

Let the Technologist know if:
  • You are pregnant or think you may be
  • You have breast implants
  • You have any scars or moles on or near your breasts
  • You have had breast biopsy or surgery
  • You are breast-feeding

PET/CT

Positron Emission Tomography (PET/CT) is a sophisticated imaging technique that provides a comprehensive and unique picture of metabolic activity within the body. Using PET/CT, physicians can locate and identify a disease , particularly cancer, often before it is visible by other imaging techniques. PET/CT can have a major impact on the treatment of cancer by identifying if cancer has spread to other locations in the body. Clinical studies have shown that PET/CT alters patient staging and treatment management in up to 40% of cancer cases.

Who Should get a PET/CT Scan?

Your primary care physician or referring specialist will determine if a PET/CT scan is appropriate for your care. PET/CT is most commonly used for cancer diagnosis and staging. Pregnant or nursing women are usually not imaged with PET/CT.

Will My Insurance Cover PET/CT?

Most insurance companies provide PET/CT coverage for specific indications, varying by the insurer. It is important for you or your referring doctor to contact your insurer regarding coverage. Your referring doctor may be able to assist with referrals, pre-authorization, or other specific requirements. In instances where medical insurance does not cover the PET/CT examination, please contact our billing office at 518-793-6571.

DEXA Scan

A DEXA scan (Dual Energy X-Ray Absorption) bone density study measures the calcium content (density) of your bones. A scanner that emits minute amounts of X-Rays is used for this exam. Scans of your lower back or hip are most often taken. You are having this exam because you may be at risk for OSTEOPOROSIS (loss of bone mass). This exam can also show whether your medications are slowing down bone loss.

Let The Technologist Know:

  • If you are pregnant or suspect you may be
  • If you have metal in the part of your body being imaged
  • If you have had a recent nuclear medicine scan or a barium enema
  • If you have a severely curved spine, have had a spinal surgery, or can't lie on your back

Before Your Exam:

  • Wear clothing with no metal closures, such as zippers. You may have to remove your watch or metal items that can affect exam results. You may be asked to wear a gown.