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

Is MRI helpful in identifying causes of pain?

Imagine the following scenario: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) provides enough detail that the radiologist and orthopedic doctor diagnosed a 50% tear in a tendon of the right ankle. Without the results from the MRI, the college freshman gymnast would have hurt herself even more. After finishing a dose of steroids to reduce swelling and using an extra-strength pain relieving cream, … Read More

Breast biopsy: what to know

If you find a lump or a change in your breast is seen on a mammogram, a biopsy may be needed to know what’s causing it. A biopsy is when a piece of tissue is taken out and tested in the lab. A biopsy is the only way to know if a suspicious breast change is cancer. The American Cancer Society … Read More

Wait three weeks for an MRI? Just say no!

Capitol Imaging Services was contacted via our online appointment request form in order to schedule an MRI. The reason? In their own words, “I need to have my MRI done next week, and the last time I had to wait three weeks, mainly because the doctor sent to an MRI center where he had business interests. Please help me get … Read More

Scientists located biomarkers for Inflammatory Bowel Disease

A few years ago, researchers trying to find the key to a mysterious group of digestive ailments located a number of biomarkers for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Their discovery is part of the efforts to lead to earlier diagnoses and intervention for individuals still asymptomatic. A team of scientists from the University of Cincinnati analyzed data from the Department of Defense Serum Repository (DoDSR), a … Read More

Positioning inside an MRI

This is an inquiry Capitol Imaging Services associates and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) technologists get asked frequently. We thought we would provide a brief answer. Center of the MRI The part of the body that is scanned must be in the center of the scanner tunnel. If the body part being scanned is from the waist down, you will be … Read More

Can you trust your doctor with your financial health?

That’s a question posed on a website blog that touts services medical cost savings for consumers. It’s an interesting and poignant question. Of course, the presumption is that a person trusts their doctor or medical provider with their physician health, otherwise they would seek different care. We put our trust in their training and expertise to examine, diagnose and treat properly. … Read More

Shop smart for health care: imaging studies

Become an educated consumer. Take ownership in your health care dollar and understand why you were referred to one place over another. Ask your doctor if he or she is required by his or her employer or financially incentivized to send you to a particular medical facility for testing. Look up your imaging study. There are numerous websites that provide estimates … Read More

Our mannequin challenge for MRI patients

Capitol Imaging Services issues this challenge every day to people who visit us for their recommended Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) exam. Often times, people undergo more than one MRI in one visit as it is more convenient to have the needed tests done all at once versus returning on a separate day. However, with one or more MRI exams, the … Read More

When is it appropriate to shop for healthcare services?

Much is spoken about, written about and bantered about in regard to people becoming much more engaged with healthcare services that they may need. Services have a wide and varied range from lab work to therapy to surgeries. Within that range, of course, is medical imaging. Medical imaging is an important cog in healthcare due to its screening and diagnostic capabilities … Read More

Hospitals tend to be compensated by insurance companies at about twice the rate for private independent companies

The headline is a statement made in an article posted in the Southwest Citizen’s Guide on patient comparison shopping for imaging services. Often, the follow-up question most will ask is “Why?” Common reasons include: Hospitals often negotiate with insurers for higher reimbursement rates on their imaging services. Hospitals claim they need higher reimbursements due to their large overhead and to compensate … Read More

Insurance deductible, coinsurance, and copay: know the differences

Many people are confused about the differences between an insurance deductible, co-pay and coinsurance. In short, all three represent the portion of the medical bill that you are responsible for in case you get sick or injured. Another term used is out-of-pocket expense. However, there are some very unique differences between each one. Deductible An insurance deductible is usually a … Read More

Federal law allows hospitals to charge facility fees

From a story posted locally comes this excerpt: Federal law allows hospitals to charge facility fees for outpatient services at affiliated clinics, regardless of whether the clinic is anywhere near the hospital. The clinics may have the same equipment, staffing and operating expenses as a private practice, and may look much the same as a private practice, but the simple fact that … 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

What is a PI-RADS score?

The tremendous interest in 3T multiparametric MRI (mpMRI), not only here in the U.S. but around the world, brought with it the challenge of how to standardize the reporting of prostate image analysis among radiologists around the globe. The European Society of Urogenital Radiology (ESUR) proposed a numeric system called the Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System, or PI-RADS, for … Read More

Breast MRI: an important piece of the imaging puzzle

Capitol Imaging Services shares information about an advanced imaging exam we perform as part of our portfolio of women’s imaging services: breast MRI. MRI of the breast is not a replacement for mammography or ultrasound imaging but rather a supplemental tool that has many important uses, including: Screening in women at high risk for breast cancer. Determining the extent of … Read More

Spreading the word about the benefits of 3D mammography

The signs you see to the right are new billboards that our Capitol Imaging Services affiliate, Diagnostic Imaging Services (DIS) had live during the month of October at different locations in the greater New Orleans area. This was something new for DIS. Many times, people will see billboards for hospitals and other medical practices. This is truly a test for … Read More

The difference between 2D and 3D mammography

Every year, hundreds of thousands of women in the United States are told by their medical provider that they have been diagnosed with breast cancer. Every year, breast cancer takes the lives of tens of thousands of women. When breast cancer is detected early – before it has spread – it is easier to treat. Women have a much better chance … Read More

Trying to put 3D mammography dose in understandable terms

One of the questions often posed by women and by medical providers regarding 3D mammography is about overall safety. Numerous reports, studies and research came out regarding what we call ionizing radiation, which is defined as radiation consisting of particles, x-rays, or gamma rays with sufficient energy to cause ionization in the medium through which it passes. While that may … 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

Report cites “out of pocket” health spending is soaring

According to a research report published, U.S. health care spending increased to $3.3 trillion in 2016, with out-of-pocket health care costs borne directly by consumers rising 3.9 percent – the fastest rate of growth since 2007. Published by the non-profit organization, Health Affairs, health expenditures swallowed a greater part of the economy, with health expenditures making up 17.9 percent share … Read More

Stitching: a technique in the identification of scoliosis

Scoliosis is a disorder that causes an abnormal curve of the spine and backbone that if left untreated could lead to further health complications. Scoliosis affects about 3% of the U.S. population. Scoliosis is commonly developed in children between ages 10 and 15 and is about two times more common in girls than boys. Diagnosing and treating scoliosis in its … Read More

An explanation of an exam that is very difficult to pronounce: HSG

A hysterosalpingogram (HSG) is an x-ray test that looks at the inside of the uterus and fallopian tubes and the area around them. It often is done for women who are having a hard time becoming pregnant. During a hysterosalpingogram, a dye (contrast material) is put through a thin tube that is put through the vagina and into the uterus. … Read More

Why does a woman undergo a hysterosalpingogram?

Our Capitol Imaging Services affiliate, Diagnostic Imaging Services, performs a specialty exam called a hysterosalpingogram. A hysterosalpingogram (HSG) is an x-ray test that looks at the inside of the uterus and fallopian tubes and the area around them. It often is done for women who are having difficulty becoming pregnant. During a hysterosalpingogram, a dye (contrast material) is put through a … Read More

Be a smart shopper on health care

The bane of any purchaser is not knowing enough about the purchase opportunity. We try hard to understand the relationship between price and what we’re getting. Nowhere is this bane more pronounced than in our relationship with our health care system. There are many ways we interface with it: Emergencies — where we ask no questions and simply plead to … Read More

The mistake that can cost you up to 85% MORE for medical tests

Diagnostic tests such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs can be very expensive if you don’t have insurance. In fact, they can be expensive even if you DO have insurance, depending on your policy’s deductibles and co-pays. Most people don’t realize that the fees for these procedures can vary tremendously, depending on where they are performed. Many people use hospitals … Read More

Hospital facility fees add to ballooning costs of health care for consumers

Capitol Imaging Services shares this story about ballooning health care costs in the state of Vermont, with one reason being: The root of these increases are controversial charges known as “facility fees,” and they are routinely tacked on to patients’ bills not just for services actually provided in hospitals, but also by outpatient care centers and doctors’ offices simply because … 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

Pipe up to your doctor, pick up the phone and shop around

That’s not advice coming from Capitol Imaging Services. Of course, we fully endorse it and have recommended these courses of action for years. People must stop being passive patients and become engaged as a active consumer. This advice comes from a myriad of sources, from reporters who cover investigative stories on healthcare prices to national organizations who recommend ways for … Read More

Why a prostate exam with 3T MRI and Computer Aided Detection is best

Because the prostate is a small organ located deep in the pelvis, traditional imaging methods have not been very successful in detecting prostate cancer. However, utilizing new generation 3T MRI scanners and special parameters with interpretation of images by an experienced radiologist, greater than 97% accuracy can now be achieved in detecting clinically significant prostate cancer or excluding significant cancer. … Read More

How Does MRI Work?

MRI is short for Magnetic Resonance Imaging. It is a procedure used in imaging centers to scan patients and determine the severity of certain injuries. An MRI machine uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of the body. Common reasons people go in to get an MRI are for a sprained ankle or back pain. What should I do … Read More

What an MRI identifies for confirming and monitoring multiple sclerosis

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) imaging of the brain and spinal cord is the most common diagnostic tool to confirm the diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and to monitor disease activity. MRI scans reveal abnormalities in the majority (90% to 95%) of people with MS. Although brain lesions are more common than spinal cord lesions, imaging of both brain and spinal cord … Read More

Why one medical provider prefers Capitol Imaging Services

Most would initially conclude that the above statement comes from a satisfied person who came to Capitol Imaging Services for an imaging exam. Actually, that statement came from a nurse that works in a referring office in New Orleans, LA. This nurse from an orthopedic practice had referred someone to a facility other than Capitol Imaging Services (a hospital imaging … Read More

I can’t fight this feeling

If you have ever felt nervous, anxious or on edge when in tight spaces such as an elevator, closet or even a small car, chances are you show signs of clinical claustrophobia. Claustrophobia is defined as “a fear of being in closed or small spaces” and “an unhappy or uncomfortable feeling caused by being in a situation that limits or … Read More

Why are MRI scanners so loud?

Why do MRI machines make so much noise?  This is actually a very common question. Noises associated with MRI machines have been compared to jackhammers, clanking, banging, and industrial noises. You should be aware that these noises are normal and are not an indication that anything is wrong with the machine, but rather an indication that the machine is doing … Read More

Breast cancer: symptoms and treatment

Capitol Imaging Services shares an informative three-minute presentation on the most common forms of cancer in women. In this video, an explanation of what cancer is and how it can develop in the breasts is provided. A description of different symptoms that are possible signs for breast cancer and the risk factors associated with this disease are also included. Capitol Imaging Services offers … 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

Learn more about breast ultrasound

Capitol Imaging Services provides information about an exam commonly performed as part of our women’s imaging portfolio: breast ultrasound. Ultrasound is safe and painless, and produces pictures of the inside of the body using sound waves. During a breast ultrasound examination the sonographer performing the test may use Doppler techniques to evaluate blood flow or lack of flow in any … Read More

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Can I get access to my medical records?

Numerous times throughout the year, Capitol Imaging Services (CIS) receives requests from both people and medical providers for their medical records. Our crackerjack medical records team works to quickly turn around each request, provided the correct information and paperwork is provided. There is another faster, easier way to access your medical records. That way is by using the Capitol Imaging … Read More

Exposing the myths and urban legends surrounding what causes breast cancer

Capitol Imaging Services (CIS) shares a news story that “exposes the myths, urban legends, and old wives’ tales surrounding what causes breast cancer.” Note that one of the myths is having a mammogram, ultrasound or MRI. Yes, you’ll be exposed to radiation during a mammogram, but the amount from this screening test is negligible. Meanwhile, multiple studies have shown that … Read More

Another example of hospital imaging MRI exam “sticker shock”

Even though this is not a story from our area, it still holds relevance not only in the greater New Orleans area, but in the southeastern United States as well as the entire country. This story is from a public radio news reporter in Boston, Massachusetts who needed to undergo an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scan. The reporter did call … 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

How to prepare your child for an x-ray or MRI

Going to the doctor can be scary enough for young children. So the idea of an X-Ray or MRI may prove particularly stressful. You see sophisticated equipment that can help identify risks to your child’s health. Your child, however, may simply see a big machine with laser-like lights strong enough to see through their skin and bones. Their perception of … 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

Shades of prostate cancer?

Diagnostic Imaging Services shares an informative presentation by the Prostate Cancer Research Institute regarding the different types of prostate cancer that often can result in confusion for the man receiving the diagnosis as well as his family and friends. Types of prostate cancer range from low-grade to advanced, and call for different types of treatment plans. Learn more about these … Read More

What is ultrasound-guided breast biopsy?

Lumps or abnormalities in the breast are often detected by physical examination, mammography, or other imaging studies. However, it is not always possible to tell from these imaging tests whether a growth is benign or cancerous. A breast biopsy is performed to remove some cells—either surgically or through a less invasive procedure involving a hollow needle—from a suspicious area in the breast … Read More