Diagnostic Imaging Services

Methods for Diagnosis

In simple terms, a diagnosis helps a physician determine if a patient suffers from a medical condition. Doctors perform these tests to understand the symptoms and causes of a disease or disorder in a patient and use the results to make more informed decisions about treatment. Some of the diagnostic processes administered at Memorial Healthcare include:

Radiology

At the main hospital campus, patients can obtain advanced imaging procedures such as MRIs, CTs, and PET/CT scans. People receiving outpatient care can attain these diagnostic services during regularly scheduled hours, but trauma patients in the Emergency Medicine department have access to them 24/7. Hospital staff members use digital radiographic and fluoroscopic tools from high-quality brands, such as GE Medical Systems, Konica Minolta, Fuji Medical Systems, and Phillips.

Patients can visit one of the seven clinics throughout the Greater Shiawassee County area for these walk-in diagnostic services. The Diagnostic Center at the main hospital in Owosso, MI, also offers diagnostic imaging and laboratory services, including ultrasound, digital mammography, bone density tests, stereotactic breast biopsy, and general radiology.

Mammography

Mammograms are the most effective means to test patients for breast cancer. They sometimes detect cancer three years before the patient feels a difference. The physicians at Memorial Healthcare use the Genius 3D Mammography exam to screen patients for breast cancer. This test is available on the Selenia® Dimensions system offered by Hologic and gives people of all breast densities optimal results. Benefits of the Genius 3D Mammography exam include:

• Detects 20-65% more invasive breast cancer than the 2D option
• Decreases callbacks by up to 40% compared to the 2D approach
• Contains FDA approval as the better choice for people with dense breasts

By and large, people look favorably on the Genius 3D Mammography exam. The test has been administered over 8 million times in the United States, and a recent survey of those who received it found that:

• 98% of patients are more confident in the results.
• 94% are likely to ask for the Genius exam for their next mammogram.
• 93% are less nervous with the Genius exam than with the 2D method.
• 91% believe the Genius exam enhanced their care experience.

Besides the Genius 3D Mammography exam, patients also may acquire a stereotactic biopsy or breast MRI, if necessary.

American College of Radiology (ACR) recognizes Memorial Healthcare as a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence, indicating the level of quality the hospital brings to mammography services. This distinction is the highest available from ACR for meeting and exceeding the standards of patient care. Patients can seek digital mammography services at Memorial Diagnostic Center at 100 Health Park or the main building at 826 W King St in Owosso.

Ultrasound

Ultrasound, or sonography, is a popular diagnostic technique that uses sound waves to generate images of the body. Memorial Healthcare utilizes 4D technology to obtain live-action, 3D pictures of internal structures. This tool helps physicians eliminate different conditions to pinpoint the patient’s issue.

Nuclear Medicine

The well-designed Nuclear Medicine department at Memorial Healthcare features two GE Infinia Hawkeye II cameras for nuclear medicine imaging and procedures. These services are accredited by the ACR and are performed by adept, registered Nuclear Medicine Technologists.

Bone Density

Memorial Healthcare offers bone density screenings, which determine the strength of a patient’s bones. This test measures one’s bone density and notifies physicians of osteoporosis or other bone conditions, as well as if patients are at higher risk of breaking a bone.