FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

How do I prepare for the Virtual Colonoscopy?
There is a preparation required for the Virtual Colonoscopy. For your exam you will be given a prep kit after you have scheduled you’re appointment. The prep kit allows for proper cleansing of the colon. The day prior to you appointment you will be fasting with clear liquids and following the instructions on the prep kit. On the day of your exam you will have a suppository and will continue drinking clear liquids until after your exam.

What should I expect in a Bone Densitometry exam?
There is no preparation necessary. The exam requires several minutes. A localizing scan is performed for reference and single scans are made through the upper four lumbar vertebrae and the hips. The computer then calculates the average density of bone in the vertebral bodies and compares it with a phantom of known density. Your bone density is then compared with "normal for age" values in a chart and the result stated in standard deviations above or below normal for age.

Why do I need an injection for a CT scan?
The "dye" injection is a clear liquid contrast agent containing iodine. It enhances the soft tissues and helps to define abnormalities. It is essential in visualizing the blood supply to internal organs. The contrast is excreted by the kidneys within several hours. We use only nonionic contrast, a safe agent with very few side effects.

What preparation is necessary for a CT scan?
You may be asked to drink a flavored liquid which highlights the intestine and helps to differentiate the intestine from other internal organs. We also suggest you not eat solid food several hours prior to intravenous contrast injections.

How long does a CT scan exam require?
The “16 slice” helical CT scan is very fast. Once you are on the CT table the scans are performed during a single breath-hold, usually 20-30 seconds.

What should I expect in a Coronary Artery Calcification Scoring exam?
The procedure is performed in several minutes. The data is acquired in a single breath-hold scan, about 20 seconds. The exam is non-claustrophobic, because your head is outside the scanner at all times. The radiation dosage is minimal, less than a regular CT. No preparation is necessary.

How do I prepare for a Coronary Artery Calcification Scoring exam?
No preparation is necessary, and there are no injections.

What is the cost of a Calcification Scoring exam?
The exam typically costs $375 (please call for price updates). Unfortunately, not all insurance companies cover this procedure. However, many insurance companies will reimburse for the exam if ordered by a physician. Our policy is that payment is made at the time of the visit to our facility.

How does MRI operate?
Magnetic resonance images are formed by the computer processing of signals that are emitted by body tissue. These signals are generated using a safe magnetic field in combination with radio waves of a specific frequency. Different tissue characteristics are revealed through this process and translated into different contrast levels on the image.

What should I expect in an MRI exam?
The procedure typically will last anywhere from 25 to 30 minutes, depending on the type of information required by your physician. All that is required of you is to be as still as possible during the exam. In fact, some patients fall asleep. If you choose, you can have a family member or friend in the scan room with you.

You will be easily seen by the technologist at all times. For your convenience, an intercom system is built into the magnet. If you should need any assistance, the technologist will respond immediately.

In certain instances, a contrast agent may be administered to enhance the study. There are no extra precautions should the doctor require this. Consult the doctor or technologist to answer any questions you may have.

> Next Page
1, 2, 3, 4