St. Joseph’s/Candler offers the latest technology in imaging services

When patients need imaging services, specifically MRI, their first thoughts may go to hard, cold surfaces, constrictive and claustrophobic machines operating in a noisy environment.

“Patients want comfort, speed and less noise,” says Jeff Zehel, St. Joseph’s/Candler Executive Director for Cardiology & Imaging Services. “In the 3T MRI, for example, we have technology that provides a more comfortable table, produces results in less time and with a considerably reduction of noise compared to older technology.”

At St. Joseph’s/Candler, we have the latest technology to make patients feel comfortable and get them in and out as quickly as possible. In addition, SJ/C deploys the most technologically advanced X-ray imaging equipment to help reduce radiation exposure to the patient and operator while providing faster, more detailed results to the clinicians, Zehel says.

St. Joseph’s/Candler provides a full range of advanced imaging technology for the diagnosis and treatment of the patient. Our radiologists are all board-certified, fellowship-trained in their specialty.

We have inpatient and outpatient imaging services available at multiple locations:

• St. Joseph’s Hospital Imaging Department
• Candler Hospital Imaging Department
• Telfair Pavilion
• Telfair Breast Imaging Center – Eisenhower
• SJ/C Imaging Center – Pooler
• SJ/C Imaging Center – Bluffton
• PET-CT at the Nancy N. and J.C. Lewis Cancer & Research Pavilion

Depending on what you come in for and what your physician requests, there are multiple imaging services available. Here’s a closer look at some of our radiological services:

Digital X-Ray: Our digital X-ray equipment enhances detail-producing, improved radiographic and fluoroscopic image quality. The result is an image that is clearer for interpretation in diagnosing and treating illness and at the same time reducing radiation exposure to the patient and the operator.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): MRI is a non-invasive diagnostic tool used to look at the physiological process of the body makeup. This technology is especially useful in imaging the brain, heart and abdomen, along with muscles, joints, ligaments and cartilage injuries. Using a magnetic field, radio waves and a computer, MRI creates a detailed picture of the anatomy without exposure to radiation as used in X-rays. At St. Joseph’s Hospital, we offer 3T MRI, which is the most powerful magnet in the surrounding multiple-county area, Zehel says. Candler Hospital also offers complimentary technology in an oval magnet providing the widest 1.5T opening in the area for larger or more claustrophobic patients. SJ/C delivers uncompromised imaging capability for all specialties, Zehel says, including neurology, cardiovascular, orthopedics, oncology and urology, to name a few.

Computerized Tomography (CT): CT is a sophisticated X-ray imaging system taking multiple views of the anatomy then using a computer to combine all the images together producing a detailed look at structures in the body. CT is a useful tool for imaging trauma, cardiac, brain, abdomen, spine and other organs in the body, as well as guidance for biopsy and treatment planning procedures.

Nuclear Medicine (Nuclear Scanning): A technology that uses a radioactive compound and an imaging camera and computer to detect abnormalities in organs, tissues and bones that is helpful in leading to a diagnosis. The radioactive compound is usually administered into the patient’s bloodstream by injecting a radioactive substance that is later excreted by the body. A special camera and computer system then scans the patient, detects radiation deposit and produces an image.

Ultrasound: Ultrasound is a non-invasive technology using sound waves to capture high-resolution images of the anatomy primarily focusing on abdominal scanning and vascular imaging. Ultrasounds also can be used for biopsy guidance and breast imaging.

Related Article: Seven ways ultrasounds are used for non-invasive screens

Vascular/Neurological Interventional Procedures: St. Joseph’s/Candler also offers state-of-the-art interventional peripheral/vascular imaging capabilities and neurological diagnostic and therapeutic imaging. Our labs are equipped with the latest imaging technology and staffed with experienced physicians, technologists, nurses and support personnel.

Digital Mammography: Digital mammography is an X-ray image that gives physicians a clearer view of the breast compared to older, film-based mammography. All St. Joseph’s/Candler mammography locations use digital mammography with most offering 3D or tomography capabilities. Currently, Telfair Pavilion, Telfair Breast Imaging Center – Eisenhower and SJ/C Imaging Center – Pooler all offer 3D mammography. The breast is compressed in the typical fashion, but unlike a 2D machine, the 3D technology provides images from many different angles. Aided by a computer, images are then built into a 3D image, allowing a clear, high-resolution image to aide doctors in differentiating cancer and non-cancer abnormalities.

Related Article: Life-saving technology: Schedule your mammogram today

Positron Emission Tomography (PET/CT): PET/CT scanning is a simple, non-invasive diagnostic radiology procedure much like CT or MRI test. A radioactive sugar is injected into a vein and targets areas of high or low metabolic activity. This scan is currently used to look at cancer cells, heart muscle activity and seizure activity. PET/CT is available at the Nancy N. and J.C. Lewis Cancer & Research Pavilion.

Picture Archival and Communication System (PACS): PACS is a digital image storage system that eliminates the need to store X-ray images on film. The system provides authorized access to digital images via a secure internet connection.

For more information about our imaging services or to pre-register for your next appointment, visit our website.