For Patients 
    Procedures

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a diagnostic procedure in which magnetic and radio waves are used to form a detailed image of the inside of your body. Because MRI uses strong magnets, you will be asked to remove your jewelry and any other metal objects. It is crucial to let the MRI technologist know if you have a pacemaker or other implants, or have any metal hardware in your body. For your test, you will be asked to lie on a platform which is encircled by a large piece of equipment that holds the magnet. We have a “short bore MRI” unit which relieves patients concerned about a feeling of confinement during a procedure: our MRI has the largest opening in the industry. If your test requires the use of contrast, a technologist will inject a “dye” called gadolinium into your bloodstream that enhances the image. The test may take up to one hour, and can be noisy, so we’ll provide your choice of either headphones or earplugs. After your test, you can return to your normal activities.        

Computed Tomography (CT Scanning) is a test which uses X-rays with computer scans to view the soft tissues and bones inside your body. A CT scan takes pictures in “slices” and is especially useful in diagnosing various causes of abdominal pain, as well as the diagnosis of head injuries. In preparation for a CT scan, you may be asked to fast (not eat or drink for a specified period of time before the test) or to drink a contrast “dye” that enhances the image. Some tests require that the contrast be given by injection. CT scans usually takes about one half hour. After your test, you can return to your normal activities.          \

A Nuclear Medicine scan is an imaging test used to assess the condition of your internal organs and bones. In preparation, you will be given a small amount of radioactive material, that, depending on your test, will be injected, inhaled or swallowed. This tracer material concentrates in the part of your body being studied. During your test, a Radiologic Technologist (RT) will use a specialized camera to take pictures which create a three dimensional image of organs or tissues in the body. Nuclear medicine often identifies problems long before they are apparent with other diagnostic tests. Please be sure to inform the RT if any of the following apply to you: 

• You are pregnant. 
• You are breast feeding. 
• You have had a nuclear medicine scan or a study using contrast before. 
• You have any fractures, artificial joints or allergies.

Ultrasound uses sound waves to form pictures of internal organs. During your test, you will be asked to lie on an examination table with the part of your body that is being studied exposed. The Radiologic Technologist will put a gel on your skin, and press a probe instrument against your skin. Images will appear on a monitor. Back (link back to Our Services_For Patients_Testing)

Angiography entails the X-ray imaging of arteries that are made visible by the injection of contrast material into those arteries. Angiography is used for early detection and treatment of heart disease. Peripheral Vascular Angiography involves images taken during the stent placement procedure. Cardiac Angiography refers to the imaging procedures used during cardiac catheterization.      

Mammography is an X-ray examination of breast tissue to assess for any abnormalities. The equipment used at Bradford Regional Medical Center can detect changes in breast tissues up to two years before those changes can be detected by self-exam. The American Cancer Society recommends mammography screening every year for women beginning at age 40. Women who have had breast cancer or are at increased risk because of family history should consult a physician about beginning screening before age 40. During the test, you will be asked to undress from the waist up and wear a gown. The Radiologic Technologist will ask you to stand and will position your exposed breast on a small table. You will experience slight compression during the test, and this brief discomfort is necessary to get a clear image of breast tissue. 

BRMC is also proud to feature a Full Field Digital Mammography unit. This is a new kind of imaging and the unit at BRMC has a full three year accreditation. Thanks to our Lead Mammography Tech Barbara Brooks and Laura Swanson for their hard work and diligence through the process of this accreditation.

In our Stress Lab, you will be asked to walk briskly on a treadmill while a specially trained technologist monitors your vital signs under the direction of a physician. This test may be accompanied by nuclear stress testing.      

During a Bone Density scan, you will be asked to lie on a special table, and your legs will be positioned according to the body parts that are being scanned. A scanner arm will pass across your body, and the images will be viewed on a computer screen. This test uses low dose X-rays to measure the calcium content of the bones, and determine their strength. A bone density scan is most often performed on the lower back, hip, or forearm. Please let the Radiologic Technologist know if any of the following apply to you: