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You don't need to be a shutterbug to appreciate the incredible images that
are possible with today's advanced imaging technology.
Fifty years ago, if your doctor wanted an accurate understanding of what was
going on inside your body, he (it was a man's world then) would schedule an
exploratory surgery.
How times have changed. Your doctor is just as likely to be a woman. But more
important, a few painless minutes in a CT or MRI machine, and your doctor has a
very accurate image of what your body is doing. Without surgery.
Today's technology is designed to be faster, uses lower doses of radiation,
and produces better images.
What is it?
You may have heard the terms CT or MRI a thousand times but never knew what
they meant. Or perhaps you didn't care, as long as whatever it was helped you
regain your health.
If you're one of those who wants to know, click here for explanations of these terms
.
CT versus MRI
Both CT and MRI provide clear images of the body's functions.
Which is better?
That depends on what your doctor needs to know. A radiologist is a physician
who specializes in medical imaging. When your doctor orders a scan, a
radiologist reviews the request. Your doctor's request will indicate what he or
she is looking for. The radiologist might recommend a different study.
The new 64-slice CT imager is so fast it can provide
stop-action images of the heart, or a crystal clear picture of your blood
vessels. Your physician can get an accurate measurement of blockages in your
vessel. That's a big help in planning your treatment. [Click here to see CT images
.]
The new MRI is whisper quiet, 98% less noise than its
predecessor. And it can scan the entire body in just a few minutes, with
incredibly clear seamless images, up to 6' 9". [Click here to see MRI images
.]
Faster scanning time and a bigger bore hole means less anxiety and
discomfort, even for those who are frail or suffer from claustrophobia.
Whatever your doctor needs, Southwest's advanced imaging technology is
leading the way to finding answers. Fast.
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