Understanding Diagnostic Imaging

The Methodist Hospital is expanding to offer patients more convenient and easily accessible locations for diagnostic imaging. We are proud to announce the opening of the Methodist Imaging Center in West Houston, and the Methodist Breast Imaging Center in Upper Kirby. Both locations offer the latest technology and equipment, and board-certified radiologists, all with the same leading-edge care provided at The Methodist Hospital in the Texas Medical Center.

The Methodist Imaging Center brings to West Houston a full range of radiology services. These include:

Computed tomography (CT) — CT scans create cross-sectional images like slices. Doctors use the scans to detect cancer and heart disease; diagnose muscle and bone disorders; detect internal injuries; and locate tumors, infections and blood clots.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) — MRI uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create cross-sectional images of your head and body. The images are often used to diagnose central nervous system disorders, such as multiple sclerosis and brain tumors. They're also used to help identify disorders of blood vessels, inner ear tissue as well as conditions of the lungs, liver, pancreas, kidneys and spleen. We offer both a traditional, closed MRI and a new high-field open MRI.

PET/CT imaging — PET stands for positron emission tomography. Along with a CT scan performed at the same time, PET provides 3-D images of the functional processes of the body.

Ultrasound — Although often associated with pregnancy and viewing a fetus, this type of examination can also be used to study the heart, diagnose some forms of infection and cancer, guide biopsies and treatment of tumors, check the thyroid gland, diagnose gallbladder disease and reveal abnormalities in the scrotum and prostate.

X-ray — An X-ray examination uses electromagnetic radiation to create images of your bones, teeth and internal organs. X-rays offer a quick and effective way to assess bone problems, joint infections, lung and heart diseases, abdominal pain, dental conditions and more.

Bone density testing — An extremely low dose of radiation is used to image two areas of the body, usually the lower spine and one hip. Measurements of these two areas can most accurately determine the presence of osteoporosis.

The Methodist Breast Imaging Center in Houston's Upper Kirby district is dedicated to providing the best resources for detection of breast cancer.

Mammography — This is the most commonly used tool for breast cancer detection and screening. The process involves taking a low-dose X-ray of each breast, and can show changes in the breast up to two years before a patient or physician can feel them.

Breast MRI — A breast MRI uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create cross-sectional images of the breast. This test is used in addition to mammograms for women with a high risk of breast cancer.

MRI biopsy — When a suspicious mass is found in the breast that cannot be seen in mammograms or ultrasounds, biopsies must be taken through a needle guided by MRI.

Breast ultrasound — Using sound waves to create an image of the breast, this test can help a radiologist determine if a lump or mass is filled with fluid or is solid tissue.

Ultrasound biopsy — If a lump is identified as suspicious, physicians may use an ultrasound biopsy to remove pieces of tissue with a needle through a small cut in the skin.

Stereotactic biopsy — A stereotactic biopsy is similar to an ultrasound biopsy, and is guided by mammography.