Radiology

FCMH's Radiology Department plays an important role in diagnosing illnesses. We offer ultrasound, mammography, computerized tomography (CT), nuclear medicine, along with fluoroscopy and plain radiography. Our radiologists interpret your exams and report their findings to your attending physician.

Besides offering conventional radiography and fluoroscopy, FCMH provides the community with additional imaging modalities such as mammography, ultrasound, CT, MRI, and nuclear medicine.

Mammography

Our mammography equipment uses a low dose of radiation to detect breast cancers small that even the most experienced examiners cannot feel them. The FCMH mammography department is certified by the Food and Drug Administration and accredited by the ACR (American College of Radiology). We have 7 registered mammographers on staff and mammograms can be scheduled Monday through Friday from 7:30 AM-3:30 PM.

Ultrasound

Ultrasound equipment uses high-pitched sound waves and echoes to obtain pictures of different organs in your body. No radiation is involved. Prior to the procedure, the patient will be instructed by their doctor on the preparation that is needed. The technologist will explain the exam and a transducer and jelly will be put on the area that is to be scanned. The procedure usually lasts less than 30 minutes. This service is available Sunday through Friday, mornings and afternoons.

Computerized Tomography (CT)

The CT unit helps the physician diagnose and identify problems that ordinary x-ray equipment can't. Prior to the procedure, your physician will instruct you on the necessary preparation. Many CT scans require a prep prior to the exam, some do not. You will have to lie on a table for your test. The table will move through a gantry (an opening that looks like a doughnut). Your exam will show 3-D images of your body that will enable the Radiologist to determine the results of your scan. Your CT scan will take 10 to 30 minutes. They can be scheduled Monday-Friday.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

The most recent development in imaging procedures, MRI, is an advanced method of producing images of the human body without the use of x-rays. Instead, a large magnet, radio waves, antenna and a computer are used. The human body is made up of millions of atoms which are magnetic and when placed in a magnetic field, respond to radio waves, producing signals picked up by a powerful antenna. These signals are sent to a computer which produces very clear images. This process takes approximately one hour and is most useful in examining the head, neck, abdomen, bones, and joints. FCMH offers MRI four days a week.