Our services include standard X-rays as well as:

• GE Hawkeye Infinia 4
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
• Computed Tomography (CT) scans, sometimes called Computerized Axial Tomography (CAT) scans
• Ultrasound
• Mammograms
• Bone density testing
• Nuclear medicine
• Picture Archival and Communication System (PACS)

GE Hawkeye Infinia 4

Fort Loudoun Medical Center is the only hospital in the region to offer the GE INFINIA™ HAWKEYE®, a revolutionary new combined nuclear medicine/CT system that collects both anatomical and biological information during a single exam.

The Hawkeye's integrated CT solution, first pioneered by GE in 1999, harnesses the power of GE's exclusive Hawkeye single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT)/CT imaging to accurately detect and pinpoint disease.

Current Imaging Technology - Referred to angiography New imaging technology at Fort Loudoun Medical Center - Normal

The new system delivers unprecedented image resolution and reconstruction. The Hawkeye's unmatched SPECT images focus on metabolic abnormalities that are present earlier than the anatomical changes otherwise seen with CT alone. This image quality is important, as physicians are able to make more accurate assessments of disease states and prescribe proper therapy methods for patients resulting in better patient care.

MRI scans

With our state-of-the-art MRI scanner, we offer various types of body imaging. Because magnetic resonance imaging - or MRI - can give such clear pictures, it is the most sensitive exam for many problems.

For instance, an MRI often is used to diagnose sports injuries, Thanks to its precision, doctors can detect tears in tissue, tumors, swelling, and problems with joints and bones.

Precise pix
MRI pictures are amazingly clear and detailed. The technique - based on radiofrequency waves and a strong magnetic field rather than X-rays - helps identify cancer, heart and vascular disease, stroke, joint and musculoskeletal problems and other disorders.

Because there's no radiation exposure to the patient, MRI has become popular as an alternative diagnostic tool.

CT scans

Computed tomography (or CT) scans came on the scene in the late 1960s. Sometimes they're called computerized axial tomography (CAT) scans.

They combine the power of X-rays and computers - meaning that doctors can see a patient's internal anatomy without surgery.

These scans reveal bone and soft tissues, including organs, muscles and tumors. CT greatly helps doctors with diagnosis, surgery and treatment. For example, in radiation therapy, the right dose for a patient depends on knowing the precise density, size and location of a tumor.

Ultrasound

New ultrasound units provide the latest in scanning capabilities. With this technology, doctors can see images of internal organs as they function and also can assess blood flow.

Doctors at Fort Loudoun Medical Center use ultrasound in the Women's Services Department; for heart patients; and to obtain images of the abdomen and blood vessels.

The ultrasound for heart patients can perform stress echo tests. Doctors rely on these tests to detect decreases in the supply of blood and oxygen to the heart, as well as irregular heartbeats.

Benefits of ultrasound include more comprehensive and reliable exam data, faster tests and improved patient comfort.

Mammograms

We use the latest mammogram technology to obtain clearer images for proper diagnosis. The user-friendly design of our equipment means greater comfort for women while receiving their breast cancer screening and diagnosis.

The new technology cuts scan time in half, allowing patients to be seen more quickly.

Bone density testing

The latest in bone densitometer equipment is available at Fort Loudoun Medical Center for detection of subtle bone changes such as osteoporosis. The diagnostic information is faster and more accurate than past procedures.

This comes at a time when medical specialists are reporting new treatments that may help patients regenerate bone mass - and partially reverse the effects of osteoporosis.

Our technology also provides detection for advanced hip and vertebral problems in men and women.

Nuclear medicine

Fort Loudoun Medical Center's diagnostic imaging also includes nuclear medicine for heart, cancer and fracture scans.

This tool often spots abnormalities early in a disease's progression. It also provides a way to gather information that otherwise would be unavailable or require surgery or more expensive diagnostic tests.

Nuclear medicine specialists use safe, painless techniques to get body images and treat disease. Patients ingest small amounts of radioactive materials (radiopharmaceuticals). Special cameras can pick up the images and send pictures to computers.

In treatment, the radiopharmaceuticals go directly to the organ being healed. This allows for great precision.

Nuclear medicine is used to:

• Analyze kidney function
• Provide images of blood flow and heart functioning
• Scan lungs for respiratory and blood-flow problems
• Identify gallbladder blockages
• Evaluate bones for fractures, infection, arthritis or tumors
• Determine the presence or spread of cancer
• Identify bleeding in the bowel
• Locate infections
• Measure thyroid for overactive or underactive functioning.

Picture Archival & Communication System (PACS)

This technology allows images to be electronically captured, stored and transmitted - all without film.

PACS makes high-quality MRI, CT, X-ray and ultrasound pictures immediately available by computer. That means doctors can readily view any images the patient has had taken at Fort Loudoun Medical Center and other locations in the Covenant Health system.

Patients no longer need to carry X-rays from place to place. In addition, PACS gives such clear images that doctors believe it results in a better, more accurate diagnosis.