Imaging Services at JCCI

• PET/CT - Positron Emission Tomography can detect disease at a much earlier stage than other imaging modalities can.  Earlier detection enables physicians to diagnose and localize diseases quickly and more accurately.  For oncology purposes it is used to stage (determine the extent to which the disease has spread to other parts of the body), restage (re-check the spread of the disease following therapy), monitor response to therapy and for radiation treatment planning.
  
  The PET/CT coordinator at JCCI will contact you directly prior to your scheduled appointment to review the necessary prep required for this study.
  
  More information...
  
  
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) - A painless way to look inside your body without using x-rays.  Instead, it uses a large magnet, radio waves and a computer to scan your body and produce detailed pictures that cannot be seen on conventional x-rays.  Doctors use MRI to examine soft tissues, such as organs, muscle, cartilage, ligaments and tendons in many parts of the body.  MRI is helpful when looking at the brain, spine, joints and internal organs.

  The magnet used in MRI can cause metal objects in your body to move. Therefore, it is important to let your technologist know if you have had previous surgery, if you have a pacemaker or any other implants, or if you currently have metal splinters, piercings or tattoos on your body. You will also be asked to remove your watch, jewelry and other metal objects.
  

  Please inform your technologist if you are pregnant or think you may be, or if you are claustrophobic (afraid of confined spaces).
  

  All of the MRIs at JCCI are high field strength magnets that offer the latest in MRI technology and accommodate patients of all sizes, as well as claustrophobic and pediatric patients.

  	High Field Open Bore MRI can accommodate patients who weigh up to 550 pounds.  Its open design provides spacious head room, legroom, shoulder room and elbowroom to ensure maximum comfort.
  	High Field Extremity MRI features a completely open design: patients rest comfortably in a chair while only the arm or leg is placed in the magnet.  This MRI is ideal for children, athletes and claustrophobic patients.

 

 

 

• ComputedTomography (CT) - Sometimes referred to as a CAT scan.  CT uses special x-ray equipment to obtain detailed cross-sectional images of body tissues and organs.  These images enable radiologists to examine the body one thin portion at a time to assist in making a diagnosis and determine appropriate treatment.
  
  Preparation for the scan varies, depending on the part of your body to be examined.  Some studies may require oral and/or intravenous (IV) contrast dye.  It is important to tell your doctor if you have had a reaction to contrast dye in the past and if you have allergies or asthma.  You may also be required to fast prior to your scan.  The staff at JCCI will instruct you on how to prepare for your exam at the time of scheduling.
  
  
• Ultrasound - Uses sound waves rather than x-rays to generate images that are used to evaluate and diagnose various medical conditions.  JCCI performs many types of ultra sounds, from obstetrics and gynecology to abdominal, thyroid and scrotal imaging.  Ultrasounds are entirely painless and generally take approximately 20 to 45 minutes to complete.
  
  
• DEXA Scan (a.k.a. Bone Densitometry) - Measures the calcium content (density) of your bones.  It is a low-dose x-ray that detects signs of mineral loss and bone tinning.  DEXA Scan is commonly used to diagnose osteoporosis and changes in bone density.  This information is critical to your physician's ability to determine if you need to take certain steps to protect your bone health.  Walk-ins accepted for this service.
  
  
• X-Ray - A form of radiant energy, like light or radio waves.  X-rays can penetrate the body, allowing a radiology to produce pictures of your bones and internal organs and view them on photographic films or a computer monitor.  They are most often used to detect bone or joint problems, or to check the heart and lungs.  Walk-ins accepted for this service.  

How to Prepare for Your Imaging Exam
When you arrive for you exam, be sure to have your insurance forms, referral information and doctor's prescription in hand.  This will assist in decreasing the time spent on paperwork while you are at JCCI.  Also, remember to wear loose, comfortable clothing without the zippers or metal of any kind, which may interfere with your imaging study.

A Representative will answer any questions you may have regarding your procedure, including test preparations and directions.  An insurance specialist can also direct you when a referral or pre-authorization is required for a procedure.