Diagnostic
Tests
Bone Scans • CAT
Scans • EMG • MRI • NCV • X-Ray
In order to provide the most personal
and comprehensive medical care possible, Regional Orthopaedic
Health Care utilizes a variety of diagnostic X-ray
tools both within the facility, at Baxter Regional
Medical Center, Ozarks Medical Center, North Arkansas
Medical Center and White River Medical Center. The
following pages detail these tests.
Bone Scans
Bone Scans involve an injection of
a radioactive liquid into a vein that demonstrates
bone function. Bone Scans are often used to detect
problems with bone function and altered activity in
bones.
CAT (Computerized Axial Tomography)
Scans
The CAT Scan is often used to detect
problems with joints of the hip, knee and shoulder.
This helps to measure joint space more accurately than
X-rays.
Diagnostic X-rays
Diagnostic X-rays are used for detecting
fractures and to check healing of fractures after surgery.
Also, diagnostic X-rays are used in cases of total
joint replacements and/or disc disease. Our Tecnomed
X-ray equipment allows for accurate X-rays with minimal
discomfort to the patient.
Diagnostic X-rays Performed
At The Hospital
In some cases, our patients will require
certain X-ray procedures that are performed at the
hospital. All appointments for X-rays at the hospital
are scheduled through our office.
EMG, NCV
The EMG (electromyogram) tests the
electrical activity in muscles. The EMG can be used
to help detect certain muscle dysfunctions so that
a definite diagnosis can be made.
NCVs (nerve conduction
velocity) can help detect neurological problems in
an extremity that may need further treatment. These
studies are conducted in our office, at the employee's
work site, or at the hospital.
MRI What
is an MRI scan?
Summer of 2001, we announced a significant
addition to our diagnostic procedures capabilities
- magnetic resonance imaging. MRI is now performed
onsite at Regional Orthopaedic Health Care. This non-hospital
setting offers many advantages, we feel, including
cost effectiveness. Our MRI equipment is state of the
art featuring an open design to greatly enhance patient
care: the larger patient (up to 500 pounds) or the
patient who is claustrophobic can comfortably obtain
MRI services using our system. Children undergoing
MRI can have a parent or companion in sight throughout
the testing. MRI testing augments our other diagnostic
procedures such as X-ray, bone scans, CAT scans, muscle
activity and nerve conduction tests. The MRI is often
used to evaluate ankle, foot, shoulder, knee, hip,
and wrist injuries. The MRI can be extremely helpful
in locating minute injuries.
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High-resolution joint imaging |
How open MRI benefits Regional
Orthopaedic Health Care
OPART offers exceptional performance
with all the comfort advantages of open MRI systems.
But unlike other open systems, our MRI offers superconducting
image quality which means we get the best images possible
for the most accurate diagnosis. Plus, OPART provides
us with leading edge technology for better viewing
and evaluation of your body.
Regional Orthopaedic
Health Care MRI testing means all patients can be comfortable during
diagnostic testing in the "open design" MRI
system, open on the sides, unlike many systems still
in use by other health care facilities. Therefore,
our equipment poses no barrier for persons who are
claustrophobic or who are above average in size. It
will accommodate persons who weigh up to 500 pounds.
Imaging techniques available with our equipment also
provide images much more quickly than with older equipment.
Our equipment will keep in step with developments in
technology because it is designed to incorporate future
upgrades to enhance imaging capabilities.
What should you expect on your
MRI exam day?
- No special preparations are
required prior to your exam. You may eat and drink
normally, although it is best to limit your caffeine
intake. Women should also refrain from wearing
eye shadow or mascara.
- After you've changed into a gown
and removed all jewelry and metal objects, you will
be asked to lie down on the scanning table, usually
on your back. The table will then slowly move into
the system.
- An MRI coil may be placed around
the part of the body to be scanned. This acts as
an antenna. The closer it is to the area of interest
on your body, the better it receives your signal
and the better the image quality of your exam.
- Regional Orthopaedic Health Care's
helpful staff offers a total commitment to make your
visit with us comfortable and enjoyable.
- During the 30 to 45 minute scan,
you will hear a rapid tapping sound from inside the
scanner and it will vary in rhythm. This is normal
and means the scanner is acquiring your image. And,
just like when taking a photograph, to get the best
images, you should lie as still as possible when
you hear the tapping sound.
- MRI scans do not use any x-rays
or other types of potentially harmful radiation.
Immediately following the scan, you may resume your
normal activities.
Regional Orthopaedic Health Care's helpful
staff offers a total commitment to make your visit
with us comfortable and enjoyable.
What is an
MRI scan?
 Magnetic
Resonance Imaging (MRI) delivers high-resolution images
by utilizing the painless power of magnets, radio frequencies
and computer photographic techniques to accurately
depict what is happening inside of you, without using
X-rays. Regional Orthopaedic Health Care's MRI offers
a safe and fast imaging technique.
 Regional
Orthopaedic Health Care's MRI offers a safe and fast
way to get a clear picture of your internal structures,
which helps us accurately detect and define the differences
between healthy and damaged tissues. Unique, four-sided
open design for your relaxation and comfort.
Unlike a traditional closed MRI that
can produce a claustrophobic experience, Regional Orthopaedic
Health Care utilizes Toshiba's OPART. OPART is an "open" MRI
system that offers easy access from all four sides
and has a less confined feeling. With the widest vertical
opening on any MRI system, you'll be able to relax
comfortably during this painless procedure. What's
more, should your child or an elderly relative require
a scan, you can safely stay with them during the entire
procedure.
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Should your child or
an elderly relative require a scan, you can safely
stay with them during the entire procedure. |
- Open design allows full light
and fresh air circulation
- Fast imaging to minimize the time
you spend in the system
- Offers all-around patient access,
enhancing patient care.
- Provides the ability to scan large,
claustrophobic or pediatric patients
- Features a floating table top to
ensure easy and accurate patient positioning
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