What is Teleradiology? The transfer of imaging scans, (like X-Rays, CT scans, MRI etc.) by means of an electronic network, from one facility to a radiologist at another location.  The off-site radiologist then performs the interpretation based on the transmitted images and reports back to the facility.  Sometimes these radiologists are close in location and available to the patient, but often times they are either off-shore or many states away, it is important to make sure that your physician is confident in their relationship with their teleradiologist.

What is the difference between independent diagnostic imaging facilities and hospital-based facilities? Independent Diagnostic Imaging centers are “independently owned” by the radiologists themselves. Generally they have lower pricing and more immediate availability than hospital systems.  Hospitals have higher costs for many reasons; however often times there are more specialized physicians readily available for consultations.

Difference between an Open MRI and Closed MRI: The term Closed MRI refers to the tube-shaped scanners, which range from .35 Tesla up to 3.0 Tesla (Tesla = measure of strength of magnetic field). Open MRI scanners, have no sides and are used for heavier patients and claustrophobic individuals. Open MRIs provide some studies that Closed Magnets are incapable of capturing, however Closed Magnets are known to generally have higher Tesla Strength, of course newer Open Magnets are the exception. Closed scanners are usually faster than Open scanners, as well.

Digital Mammography VS. Standard Mammography: Until recently, mammography readings were performed with screen-filmed cassettes and interpreted in that way.  This method is still effective, however new magnets have transitioned to digital readings (referred to as FFDM/Full Field Digital Mammography) which allows for higher resolution of images, more expensive equipment and more accurate first-readings.

X-Ray: An electro-magnetic radiation with short wavelengths that is used to interpret solid areas, like BONES.

Ultrasound: Uses high-frequency sound waves to capture echoes, which form the image. Not just used for seeing babies, but also used for: neck, abdomen, pelvis, blood vessels, biopsies and aspirations.

CT/Computed Tomography/CAT Scan: A type of rotating X-Ray tube that uses a computer to translate information into an image. Used to see the location, nature and extent of many diseases or abnormalities inside the body, which usually involved the injection of a radioactive contrast into the patient’s body.

DEXA Scan: Measures the density of bones to monitor and treat the progression of things like osteoporosis and skeletal or metabolic diseases.