Radiology Tech Karen Johnson used to examine x-rays at a wall sized light box like this one. Now a digital imaging system makes it possible to examine and compare an unlimited number of images on a pair of 19" computer screens.  The computer technology allows physicians to look at the image as a whole, or to zoom in on minute details. 

Modern radiology has changed a lot since the cramped “x-ray rooms” of decades past. Bridges Radiology Department is spacious and comfortable, its staff highly trained, and its technology current. While the x-ray room remains the core of the department, a wide array of services are offered.  Critical services like X-ray and CT Scans are available 24-7 while other services such as Ultrasound, MRIs, Dexascans (bone density), and Mammograms are provided on a regularly scheduled basis.  Bridges has replaced film-based radiology with the latest in digital imaging technology.  Physicians no longer have to wait for x-ray films to be developed or to have them hand delivered to radiologists for reading.  Within minutes of the x-ray being taken, it is available at computer terminals in the radiology department, the emergency room, the clinic, or the radiologists facility in another city. Physicians and radiologists can zoom in and enhance areas of the image ensuring an accurate diagnosis. Bulky envelopes of large x-rays are being replaced with compact computer disks which make it possible to hold dozens of high quality images in the palm of your hand. This technology is available not only for x-rays, but also CTs, MRIs, and Ultrasound.

X-ray - A specific type of radiation (x-rays) are focused through the body to produce an image on film or a digital imaging system.  Modern x-rays use only a fraction of the radiation of x-rays just a couple of decades ago and special shutters and protective shields assure that the patient receives the minimum possible exposure.

Computed Tomography (CT Scan) - A moving x-ray tube creates images that are recorded as slices of the body.  This provides a different perspective than traditional x-rays allowing a physician to find changes which might not have otherwise been visible. In some cases contrast solution may be given orally or injected to allow better visualization of organs or vessels.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) - A magnetic field and pulses of radio wave energy replace x-rays.  The MRI provides information that is not available by x-ray or CT and is useful in diagnosing certain problems of the spine and joints as well as conditions of the blood vessels, nerves, and internal organs.

Ultrasound - Most familiar as the method of imaging used to produce pictures of a developing fetus, ultrasound uses sound waves to produce 2 or 3-dimensional images.  Other common uses for ultrasound include visualization of the heart, thyroid, and organs of the abdomen and pelvis.  Among its advantages is ability to produce moving images in real time such as the opening and closing of a heart valve.

Mammography - A mammogram is an x-ray of the breast used to screen for problems such as fluid filled cysts or solid masses.  Mammograms are essential for the early detection of breast cancer.  In conjunction with self-exams of the breasts, regular mammograms can reduce the risk of dying from breast cancer by detecting tumors early, while they are more easily treatable.