Imaging scans are the most common tool used in diagnostic radiology services across the world, but that doesn’t mean that all imaging centers are made equal. Before choosing a radiology center for your imaging needs, you should check for certain things: whether they hire board-certified radiologists, if they are an American College of Radiology accredited facility, and the range of services they offer.
At Bay Imaging Consultants (BICRAD), we don’t believe in providing anything less than top-notch care. Not only are we ACR accredited and board certified, we also provide professional radiology services to East and North Bay hospitals in California, as well as five MRI and CT outpatient imaging centers throughout the greater East Bay. Whatever your radiology need, we can cover it! Our physicians are trained in angiography, interventional procedures, neuroradiology, musculoskeletal imaging, mammography, nuclear medicine, and more!
Diagnostic Radiology Procedures You Can Get At BICRAD
1. MRI Scan
Our MRI scan is a valuable diagnostic tool when it comes to detecting everything from cancer to heart and vascular disease, strokes, and disorders of the joints and musculoskeletal system. Typically our MRI scans last about 30 minutes and, for patients who suffer from anxiety or claustrophobia, we offer Cinemavision, which are MRI goggles that let the patient watch a movie, TV program, or listen to music while undergoing their MRI! To find an imaging location that offers MRI, click here.
2. PET Scan
PET, or Positron Emission Tomography, is a nuclear medicine scan that utilizes an intravenous radioactive tracer and a CT scan, followed by a PET scan. This radiology procedure helps determine how a person’s cells are functioning and how quickly they are reproducing, therefore it is a good tool to use in treatments for cancer, determining the damage after a heart attack, and/or to evaluate the brain. Exam time usually lasts about an hour and a half to two hours. To see PET scan locations near you, click here.
3. CT Scan
CT scans, or Computed Tomography scans, are tests that combine special x-ray equipment to produce multiple images in more detail than regular x-ray exams. CT scans can be used to study all parts of the body, such as the chest, abdomen or pelvis. Typically, CT scans take 15 to 30 minutes in all. To see our CT scan locations, click here.
4. Ultrasound Scan
Ultrasounds, also known as sonograms, are used to obtain images of the internal body using high-frequency sound waves which are recorded and displayed as images. Because they do not use x-rays, the images are in real-time, and since they involve no radiation, they are very useful in diagnosing masses, fibroids, kidney stones, and the condition of embryo and fetus in pregnant women. To book an ultrasound appointment, choose from one of our locations here.
5. Fluoroscopy Scan
Fluoroscopy scans use x-ray technology, a special equipment called a fluoroscope, and a contrast agent to observe organs in real-time and watch for any unusual patterns. A fluoroscopy can be used to diagnose issues in the GI tract or other organs, such as the kidneys, gallbladder, and arteries. To see centers offering Fluoroscopy scans near you, click here.
6. Mammography
Mammograms are the go-to imaging procedure to help detect early breast cancer. Regular breast mammograms can significantly increase the chance of survival by up to 95%. The American Cancer Society recommends annual mammograms for women over the age of 40. To find a women's imaging clinic near you, click here.
7. Bone Densitometry
Bone density scanning, also called DXA, or DEXA scans, are an enhanced form of x-ray technology that is used to measure bone density, or bone density loss. This radiology procedure is the established standard test for measuring bone mineral density. To find DXA scan locations near you, click here.
More Information
Bay Imaging Consultants is ranked number 14 on top 100 private radiology practices and remains a powerhouse throughout East and North Bay Hospitals. If you’re in need of a diagnostic radiology procedure, visit any of our outpatient clinics, or hospital offices. To find out more about BICRAD, or how to find a location near you, contact us today!