Medical Imaging has become an increasingly important tool for your doctor to detect and more accurately treat your medical condition. More than just a traditional x-ray, our Diagnostic Imaging can assist your doctor. Imaging services include:

• Computed Tomography
• MRI Scans
• Mammography
• Ultrasound
• Advanced X-ray
• Mobile X-ray

Patients need to see their primary care physician prior to ordering exams, except for screening mammograms. If your physician is out of town, we can provide high quality diagnostic exams at Lake Chelan Community Hospital and digitally deliver them to your caregiver. For physicians not on the network, we can fax the report, mail a CD or assist them with using a web viewer to view that specific exam.

Ultrasound
Ultrasound is a type of test that uses reflected sound waves to generate a picture. A gel is applied to the skin to help transmit the sound waves. While people associate ultrasound with pregnancy, it can be used for many different parts of the body, including the heart, thyroid, arteries and veins throughout the body.

Mammography
The Selenia Mammography unit by Hologic is a state-of-the-art full digital mammography unit. This unit updated our services in 2011, allowing us to take digital images to be stored on our computer systems for improved interpretation by a reading radiologist and proficient storage of a patient’s mammograms over time. Patients who need routine screening exams may schedule their own appointment at their convenience. The Mammography Department is accredited by the American College of Radiology (ACR) and the FDA.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is provided by Alliance Imaging. The MRI unit creates images using the interaction of magnetic fields and radio waves with tissue, thus using no ionizing radiation. MRI should not be performed on patients with pacemakers, ferromagnetic aneurysm clips or metallic spinal fusion rods. An MRI test usually takes 30 – 60 minutes. Available Fridays from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM.

Computed Tomography (CT)
Computed tomography (CT) gives detailed images of a section of the body. In general, the section of the body is like a loaf of bread. Each slice is at a different spot, and we can look at different pieces and as a whole unit. The table slides into the round opening of the scanner, and the scanner moves around your body. The table will move while the scanner takes pictures. You may hear a click or buzz as the table and scanner move. It is very important to lie still during the test. CT examinations usually take less than 30 minutes. Some of the tests require an individual to drink a solution of barium, so that the stomach and intestines are well defined. Additionally, a contrast media is injected into a vein to help evaluate blood vessels. The CT images are created by using radiation. CT is a diagnostic test that is used with other modalities such as MRI, Ultrasound and general x-ray.