Medical Imaging
One of the most common misperceptions people have of their smaller community hospital is that it may not offer the latest in imaging technology, also known as radiology.
You can be sure that through SMH, you and your loved ones will be well-cared for, not only through people, but also through advanced medical imaging including CT, MRI, Digital Mammography and more. You can also be assured that your results are read by board-certified radiologists and that your provider will receive your results quickly, which is in the best interest of your health.
Shelby Memorial Hospital’s Imaging Department is 100 percent digital. In addition, SMH utilizes the PACS system in the Imaging Department, meaning all images are stored electronically which allows for rapid retrieval and the ability to send images anywhere quickly.
Look to SMH for prevention and proper diagnosis.
Our Imaging Department offers the latest technology, including:
X-ray
Sometimes that rolled ankle is just a sprain but it could be a broken bone. Only a simple, but efficient X-ray can tell the difference. At SMH we utilize this standard and proven technology to quickly diagnose and treat a patient's situation. We feature both general and portable X-ray units for efficiency.
Computed Tomography (CT Scan)
Shelby Memorial Hospital uses the GE LightSpeed 16 Slice Computed Tomography (CT) system to perform CT scans – sometimes called a CAT scan. CT is an exceptional diagnostic tool and includes a noninvasive test that produces multiple images or pictures of the inside of the body. This technology allows physicians to more effectively detect and treat a wide range of illnesses, from heart disease to cancer to stroke. These scans provide greater detail than standard x-rays.
Mammography
SMH is dedicated to making sure every woman meeting requirements (age, family or personal history, symptoms of breast disease) has a yearly screening or diagnostic mammogram, a test crucial for detecting breast cancer sometimes even before a lump is discovered after a physical examination.
Every last Tuesday of the month from 5:00-7:00PM, we are pleased to host Girls Night Out which is essentially a celebration of self-care for those who are candidates for an annual screening mammogram. During GNO, you can receive your annual screening mammogram and while you wait, enjoy light refreshments, chair massages and chances to receive great gifts.
For those who are in need of a diagnostic mammogram, our digital mammography technology is highly reliable to help radiologists and your doctor evaluate symptoms of breast disease including the assessment of a lump, nipple discharge, breast pain, dimpling of the skin on the breast, or retraction of the nipple.
Aside from non-melanoma skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common form of cancer in women. In 2009, an estimated 192,370 new cases of invasive breast cancer were expected to be diagnosed in women in the U.S., along with 62,280 new cases of non-invasive breast cancer. Scientific evidence confirms that annual screening mammograms, beginning at age 40, reduce death from breast cancer.
To schedule a mammogram, register for Girls Night Out, or if you have questions about mammograms and your insurance, call 217.774.3961, extension 5171.
SMH Mammogram Quick Tips
When you have your mammogram at different healthcare facilities, it is important that you request a copy of your films, (if film screen) or a digital image file from the facility you had your last mammogram performed.
- Do not wear deodorant, lotions or perfumes on the day of your mammogram.
- Plan to wear a two piece outfit – you will only need to remove all articles of clothing from the waist up
- Prepare to schedule your mammogram appointment for the week following your period. This will reduce the likelihood of inflammation and breast tenderness.
MRI
(Mobile MRI on-site every Wednesday and Friday)
MRI, or Magnetic Resonance Imaging, is one of the latest advances in medical imaging today. Unlike standard x-ray exams, MRI uses a large magnet to obtain images and there is no radiation involved. MRI scans show detailed anatomy, as well as soft tissue detail, which is not possible with x-rays.
Ultrasound
When most people think of having an ultrasound, obstetrics comes to mind. In reality, ultrasound images are yet another tool our physicians can use to quickly diagnose and treat illnesses. It has become one of the most widely used diagnostic tools. At SMH, we perform ultrasounds for diagnosis in the abdomen, heart, pelvis area, breast, thyroid, kidneys, bladder, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen, abdominal aorta and testicular areas.
Nuclear Medicine
SMH offers a wide variety of Nuclear Medicine Imaging Services. Nuclear medicine tests differ from most other imaging in that diagnostic tests primarily show the physiological function of the system being investigated. We can perform bone scans, liver/spleen scans, GI bleed studies, gastric emptying studies and more.
Bone Densitometry
Osteoporosis is a disease in which bones become fragile and are more likely to break. If not prevented or if left untreated, osteoporosis can progress painlessly until a bone breaks. These broken bones, also known as fractures, occur typically in the hip, spine, and wrist.
According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, osteoporosis is a major public health threat for an estimated 44 million Americans or 55 percent of the people 50 years of age and older. In the U.S. today, 10 million individuals are estimated to already have the disease and almost 34 million more are estimated to have low bone mass, placing them at increased risk for osteoporosis. While women are four times more likely to suffer from osteoporosis, men can also be affected.
SMH realizes the prevalence of this debilitating disease. In our Medical Imaging Department, we offer Bone Density (DEXA) Scans which measure bone loss and deterioration.
Together, the following five steps can optimize bone health and help prevent osteoporosis:
- Get the daily recommended amounts of calcium and vitamin D
- Engage in regular weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercise
- Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol
- Talk to your healthcare provider about bone health
- Have a bone density test and take medication when appropriate
The Imaging Department can be reached at 217.774.3961 ext 5171.