Coronary Calcium Score

Coronary Calcium Score

In today’s post, find out how your coronary calcium score can help your doctor to determine the health of your heart.

What is a radiologist?

Radiologists are medical doctors (MDs) or doctors of osteopathic medicine (DOs) who specialize in diagnosing and treating diseases and injuries using medical imaging techniques, such as x-rays, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), nuclear medicine, positron emission tomography (PET) and ultrasound. Radiologists graduate from accredited medical schools, pass a licensing examination, and then go on to complete a residency … Read More

What is a bone spur and how are they diagnosed?

If you or someone you know has had knee pain and after their diagnostic testing, they received a diagnosis of knee osteoarthritis, you may be more familiar with the term “osteophytes” or as their more common name, “bone spurs.” Bone spurs have been defined as “abnormal bony lumps that appear on the surface of joints that have suffered some degree of … Read More

What is the role of a radiologist within health care?

Radiologists are doctors who specialize in the diagnosis of disease through interpreting imaging exams. Many patients would be surprised to know that after they get an imaging study, there is a physician behind the scenes who carefully reviews all of their images, and uses the provided clinical history to form a diagnosis! Radiologists interpret radiographs (x-rays), ultrasound, nuclear medicine exams, … Read More

Medical imaging procedures and radiation concerns: are you safe?

For a number of years, the media did extensive coverage from time to time on radiation exposure from medical imaging procedures. When our patients come in, that was often a topic that we get asked about. Patients want to know how much radiation they’ll be exposed to during their procedure, and how that might affect them in regards to their … Read More

What happens when an engaged consumer tries to help control costs?

In an article, “What happens when an engaged consumer tries to help control costs?“, the author suggests the following results: As costs keep rising, and more and more people decide “I’m not going to take it anymore,” more of us will start asking “What are my options?” As word gets out that prices vary this much, it’s going to get … Read More

Why do we sometimes ask if you are diabetic or have kidney disease?

Some imaging exams, like CT or MRI scans, may require that you be given an injection of contrast medium into a vein. It is typically administered in your arm like when you have blood drawn, and it looks like IV fluid. Imaging is then taken of the area of concern. The contrast medium makes the vascular structures in your body … Read More

What is the difference between an MRI and a CT scan?

Here is a brief excerpt from an answer to the question posed above, provided by Paul Christo, M.D., Director, Pain Treatment Center, Johns Hopkins Hospital and Health System. An MRI, or magnetic resonance image, is a useful tool in evaluating the spine. An MRI is non-invasive, does not use radiation, and provides good visualization of the spinal ligaments, a herniated … Read More

Why the link between childhood cancer and CT scans may be overblown

Another study is adding to the growing body of evidence that CT scans in childhood can be linked to cancer later on. The new study, published in the journal JAMA Pediatrics, looked at seven U.S. health care systems and the use of CT scans on the head, abdomen, pelvis, chest and spine in kids under age 15. CT scans are considered one of … Read More

Know your rights and choose Capitol Imaging Services

When you visit your doctor and he recommends you have a radiological scan (MRI, CT, PET, X-Ray, Ultrasound etc), you will receive a script.  Your doctor will often make a recommendation where you should go for the scan. In some cases, your physician may belong to a medical group or hospital that owns the imaging center to where you are being referred and … Read More

CT screenings can cut lung cancer deaths according to study

According to a study conducted in the Netherlands and published in the January 2020 New England Journal of Medicine, annual Computed Tomography (CT) screenings of former and current long-time smokers have been proven to reduce deaths from lung cancer. “Wonderful News” Dr. Debra Dyer, a spokeswoman for the American College of Radiology and chair of radiology at National Jewish Health … Read More

What is the difference between a CT scan and an MRI?

Computed Tomography (CT) scans and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scans both provide diagnostic images of the inside of your body. However, they accomplish this important task in very different ways. Here are a few key differences between CT scans and MRI scans. Radiation CT uses x-ray technology to produce diagnostic images. These x-rays require a small dose of ionizing radiation. … Read More

Benefits of CT scans may outweigh cancer risk for young adults

Capitol Imaging Services shares an article published a few years ago in which the potential cancer risk that younger adults face from exposure to Computed Tomography (CT) scans pales in comparison to the actual threat posed by health conditions driving the use of the imaging technology, according to a published study. Examining medical records from about 22,000 patients between the … Read More

Why would someone be told they needed a CT scan?

CT (Computed Tomography) scanning is a noninvasive way to study all parts of your body. The technique itself is painless and can provide extremely accurate images. In many instances, a CT scan can decidedly decrease the need to perform surgery and CT scans have vastly improved the ability of doctors to diagnose many diseases earlier in their course and with … Read More

What you need to know about an arthrogram

Capitol Imaging Services is a freestanding independent outpatient imaging provider that performs a specialty procedure called an arthrogram at select affiliate centers. An arthrogram uses imaging equipment to evaluate a joint like the shoulder, elbow, wrist, hip, knee or ankle. It is a two-step procedure consisting of a contrast injection into the joint, followed by an MRI or CT scan … Read More

Learn more about CT scans

A computerized tomography (CT) scan is a type of medical imaging test that combines several different x-rays to produce cross-sectional images. Your physician may advise you to undergo a CT scan for a variety of reasons. CT scans are helpful for evaluating soft tissues and bones, which means they may be used to diagnose bone tumors, fractures, heart disease and … Read More

Ankle break or a sprain: which is it?

It is estimated that more than one million people visit the emergency room annually with ankle injuries. Of these, the majority are sprains and fractures, and in many cases, it can be hard to tell the difference. While a fracture refers to a break in one or more of the ankle bones, a sprained ankle refers to damage to the … Read More

What causes neck pain?

In a recent article, neck pain was cited as being most commonly caused by mechanical stress to the neck, such as strains or sprains to the muscles and ligaments in the neck. Of course, there are many more causes and in the article, the following were highlighted: Poor posture The part of the neck that is particularly vulnerable to forward head posture … Read More

Be cautious when evaluating imaging centers

When evaluating based on price, that’s the advice given by a physician who works for a university medical center in New York during a radiology conference held in late 2016. We agree with that advice. However, in looking further into the advice the physician provided, his assumptions were often that “nobody really knows” if lower prices can provide the quality … Read More

Health insurance company begins shopper program

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana is rolling out a shopper program that “allows members to choose, based on quality and cost, the diagnostic imaging facility where their services are rendered.” Beginning July 1, 2017, the AIM Specialty Care Shopper program introduced to their individual Preferred Care PPO and HMO Louisiana, Inc. members for Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and … Read More

The difference between CT and MRI

CT (Computed Tomography) scans and MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scans both provide diagnostic images of the inside of your body. However, they accomplish this important task in very different ways. Here are a few key differences between CT and MRI scans. The use of radiation CT uses x-ray technology to produce diagnostic images. These x-rays require a small dose of … Read More

Insurance company takes aim at hospital outpatient imaging tests

Anthem, often called a “Blues giant,” has taken a strike against healthcare services that are provided in a hospital when the same services could be performed in an independent non-hospital outpatient setting and at lower rates. Anthem is not a health insurance carrier in Louisiana. However, it will be interesting to see how other insurance providers, as well as hospitals … Read More

What is a Pars fracture?

A person visited Capitol Imaging Services due to experiencing low back and right leg pain. They also had a previous medical history of lumbar spine surgery. In this particular instance, the medical provider recommended a Computerized Tomography (CT) scan that was part of a specialty nuclear medicine Image Merge study in which the two imaging techniques, CT and nuclear medicine, … Read More

Millions at high risk for lung cancer should be screened yearly, panel says

Barbara Mantel, NBC News — In a move that could affect millions of current and former smokers, a highly influential, independent panel of medical experts is recommending yearly screening for healthy adults between the ages of 55 and 80 at high risk for lung cancer. The screening would be done with low-dose computed tomography, commonly known as CT scans — … Read More

What is radiculopathy?

If anyone has ever heard of this term in their discussion with their physician or health care provider, or has been examined/treated by a neurologist, Capitol Imaging Services would like to shed some light on what this condition is about. Radiculopathy is a disorder or disease of nerve roots that enter or leave the spine. Nerve roots are the lowest … Read More

Low on dose in Computed Tomography

In this case, being low is a very, very good thing. And being high (or higher) in slice is another great thing. Being low and being high at the same time is the result of the Hitachi Supria Computed Tomography (CT) system at select Capitol Imaging Services facilities within our affiliate network. A fantastic upgrade in technology. Much, much safer … Read More

Ten good reasons why you should choose Capitol Imaging Services

When you visit your doctor and you get a recommendation for an imaging exam, you’ll receive a referral order, also known as a script. Often, a doctor makes a recommendation on where you should go for the scan. Please be aware that you are not mandated to go where your doctor recommends on the script. You have the right to … Read More

What is the function of an imaging test?

Diagnostic imaging lets doctors look inside your body for clues about a medical condition. A variety of machines and techniques can create pictures of the structures and activities inside your body. The type of imaging your doctor uses depends on your symptoms and the part of your body being examined. They include: X-rays CT scans Nuclear medicine scans MRI scans … Read More

Why is a radiologist’s report important?

As outlined by the American College of Radiology, there are over 15 components of a radiology report. The length of the report should have some relationship to the complexity and cost of the exam. It should have pertinent positive and negative findings and address any specific clinical concerns. All important findings need to be stated first and any incidental findings … Read More

When is a CT often recommended by a physician?

CT (Computed Tomography) scanning is useful to get a very detailed 3-D image of certain parts of the body, such as soft tissues, the pelvis, blood vessels, the lungs, the brain, abdomen, and bones.  Documented common reasons for a CT include: It is often the preferred method of diagnosing many cancers, such as liver, lung, and pancreatic cancers. The image allows … Read More

Cost vs. Convenience — what if you could have both?

Capitol Imaging Services asks the question, “cost versus convenience — what if you could have both?” Which would you rather have in your health care: convenience or low cost? Oftentimes, when choosing one, the other is sacrificed. If you have ever had an x-ray, MRI or CT scan, you are well aware of the expense involved. However, choosing to get … Read More

CT lung cancer screening: the advantages it provides to the patient and physician

In an update to the National Lung Screening Trial (NLST), which was launched in 2002, researchers from the United States are reporting a sustained reduction in cancer deaths from Computed Tomography (CT) lung screening over a decade later after the initial screening exam. The research findings were recently published for medical professionals online in the Journal of Thoracic Oncology. Among … Read More

Study shows value of calcium scan in predicting heart attack and stroke

A November 2018 study showed that coronary artery calcium (CAC) screening, an assessment tool that is not currently recommended for people considered at low risk, is a better predictor of blocked coronary arteries at risk for a heart attack and the need for revascularization than standard risk-assessment equations used in medical practice today. CAC screening provides a direct measure of … Read More

Diagnostic Imaging Services renews Image Wisely Pledge

In 2011, Capitol Imaging Services affiliate, Diagnostic Imaging Services, became the first independently-owned imaging organization to join the national Image Wisely campaign that promotes patient safety in medical imaging. This year, we renew that pledge. This pledge addresses concerns about medical facilities providing maximum patient safety when undergoing a test that involves ionizing radiation. Most often, this involved Computed Tomography … Read More

Is your time valuable?

How about a way to save yourself 10 minutes? Click on the above to read our latest newsletter.    

What is sinusitis?

Particularly in the early part of the year, flu season is in full swing. Many people will experience nasal congestion, cough and facial pain or pressure. These maladies are often associated with a condition known as sinusitis. According to Medical News Today, sinusitis occurs when mucus builds up and the sinuses become inflamed. It also notes that physicians may refer to … Read More

CPT Codes and why you need to know what they are

Capitol Imaging Services (CIS) has long touted the encouragement for people to inquire and know about the CPT (Current Procedural Terminology) code that pertains to a medical exam, procedure or service that they are recommended to have. However, other national resources are also recommending this to people as healthcare consumers. You have the right to know this code and with … Read More

Why a doctor would order a CT of the abdomen and pelvis

Capitol Imaging Services answers the question, “Why would a doctor recommend a CT of the abdomen and pelvis?” This type of CT (Computed Tomography) scan is typically used to help diagnose the cause of abdominal or pelvic pain and diseases of the internal organs, small bowel and colon. According to the American College of Radiology, possible diagnoses include: infections such … Read More

Your health insurance benefits: things you should know to save money

IF YOUR EXAM IS COVERED BY PRIVATE INSURANCE: To control costs, your insurer negotiates with imaging providers on your behalf for a “contracted rate.” The contracted rate is the maximum amount that an imaging provider can collect for a covered service, and is usually less than the standard charge. What is not widely known is that the contracted rate is … Read More

Lawmakers urge Medicare coverage for cancer test

More than 130 lawmakers are urging the Obama administration to expand coverage for a lung-cancer test under Medicare that could cost the program billons, calling the screening important for vulnerable seniors. In a letter to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, the lawmakers called for a timely decision on coverage for low-dose CT scans for older patients at higher … Read More

CT lung cancer screenings to be covered by Medicare

Diagnostic Imaging Services shares a story about Medicare’s decision to cover annual low-dose CT lung cancer screenings for high-risk individuals, albeit with restrictions. The announcement is in contrast to the recommendations of the agency’s advisory panel, which had voted a lack of confidence in sufficient evidence for benefit over harms, citing the high false-positive rate of CT screening, indication creep … Read More

What are the benefits of MR Enterography performed at DIS?

MR enterography is a special type of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) performed with a contrast material to produce detailed images of the small intestine. Physicians use MR enterography to identify and locate: the presence of and complications from Crohn’s disease and other inflammatory bowel diseases inflammation bleeding sources and vascular abnormalities tumors abscesses and fistulas bowel obstructions The benefits of … Read More

We have improved our mobile presence for users who are “on the go”

Diagnostic Imaging Services significantly improved the look and feel of our website for people who prefer to use their smart phone, tablet or note pad to peruse the World Wide Web. Mobile users who log onto capitolimagingservices.com are greeted with our latest blog post. All of our pages, including our contact forms, are available. Our mobile presence provides the option to … Read More