Radiology & Diagnostic Imaging

To schedule an appointment for diagnostic imaging, call: 844.RWJ.4YOU (844.795.4968).

Radiology Services

Computer Tomography (CT): Low-Dose CT, sometimes called CAT scan, uses special x-ray equipment to obtain image data from different angles around the body, and then uses computer processing of the information to show a cross-section of body tissues and organs. RWJ Hamilton offers the latest, state-of-the-art low-dose CT, which requires less radiation than previous technology. This provides your physician with the same quality images for diagnostics, but with less risk and radiation exposure for you.

MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): MRI helps diagnose a broad range of conditions in all parts of the body, including heart and vascular disease, stroke, cancer and joint and musculoskeletal disorders. This painless, non-invasive technique uses radio waves and a strong magnetic field, rather than radiation, to provide clear and detailed pictures of internal organs and tissues.

Nuclear Medicine: Nuclear medicine users small amounts of radioactive material to diagnose and treat various diseases. The amount of radiation used in a typical nuclear medicine procedure is comparable to a standard diagnostic x-ray. Nuclear medicine offers procedures that are essential in virtually every medicine specialty, from cardiology to pediatrics, and includes the following procedures:

• Bone scans
• Nuclear stress testing
• Hepatobility scan (HIDA)
• Renal scan
• Thyroid scan

PET/CT: RWJ Hamilton provides on-site PET/CT technology — the most advanced imaging technology available for cancer detection and staging. PET (Position Emission Tomography) is able to detect actively growing cancer cells, enabling the process of staging cancer, while CT (Computerized Tomography) provides a detailed anatomic image which demonstrates the size, shape and location of abnormal cancerous growths. RWJ Hamilton is the first in the region to offer this advanced technology. In addition, our program is accredited by ICANL — Intersocietal Commission for the Accreditation of Nuclear Medicine Laboratories.

CT (computer tomography), sometimes called CAT scan, uses special x-ray equipment to obtain image data from different angles around the body, and then uses computer processing of the information to show a cross-section of body tissues and organs.

As with other nuclear medicine procedures, a PET/CT scan requires a painless injection of a radioactive tracer called FDG. PET/CT scanning excels in oncology applications, but also has indications in cardiology and neurology as well. The benefits of a PET/CT scan include:

• Earlier diagnosis
• Accurate staging and localization
• Precise treatment and monitoring

Ultrasound: A non-invasive procedure, ultrasound provides detailed images of soft tissue such as the abdominal area, breast, organs, muscles and blood vessels. Rather than using radiation, ultrasound uses sound waves that move through body tissue and convert into an electronic picture.

Vascular Lab: The vascular lab is designed for the examination of vessels (arteries and veins) using ultrasound equipment. Ultrasound uses sound waves and a computer to visualize the arteries and veins in different parts of the body.

Diagnostic Imaging at Our Comprehensive Women's Center

Our comprehensive Women's Center onsite offers the following tests:

Bone Densitometry (DEXA Scan): Bone density study is used to analyze bone mineral structure and body fat distribution. Low-energy x-rays are used to measure mineral content in the bones and body to diagnose and manage osteoporosis.

Digital Mammography: This form of imaging uses digital images rather than film, which allows the image to be viewed immediately in several different ways. It also provides the technologist with "a quick check" on positioning, reducing the possibility for blurring. With this technology, radiologists have improved the ability to locate abnormalities and have reduced the number of follow-up tests.

Breast & Pelvic Ultrasound: Ultrasound imaging, also called ultrasound scanning or sonography, is a method of "seeing" inside the human body through the use of high-frequency sound waves. The sound waves are recorded and displayed as a visual image. No radiation is involved in ultrasound imaging. Ultrasounds can show movement of internal tissues and organs, and enable physicians to see blood flow and heart valve functions.

Breast MRI: A state-of-the-art MRI offers incredible accuracy, detect many breast abnormalities which traditional radiology cannot. In fact, MRI reduces the need for biopsies, exploratory surgery and other diagnostic procedures, which carry associated risks. MRI is a totally painless procedure with no known side effects.

Stereotactic Breast Biopsy: Stereotactic biopsy provides a means to obtain a sample of questionable tissue without open surgical biopsy. During a stereotactic biopsy, small samples of tissue are removed from the breast using a hollow needle precisely guided to the suspicious location via mammography and computer coordinates.

For Your Convenience
Start by contacting the RWJBarnabas Health access center Monday through Saturday at 844.RWJ.4YOU (844.795.4968). An access representative will facilitate scheduling and insurance pre-authorization for your convenience.