Many problems can happen deep within your body without you even knowing what is happening. Thankfully, we now have the option to use diagnostic tools that can look beneath the surface of your skin and tell us exactly what is happening within your body. Ultrasound for DVT diagnosis is one such smart option, which is a safe noninvasive imaging modality.
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Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) continues to prove itself as an invaluable member of the medical imaging team. The Radiology Clinic utilizes 3T MRI, which is the strongest and fastest technology available. While other modalities have their place, 3T MRI renders the most detailed pictures of soft tissue in the body. Therefore, when a patient comes in with symptoms of heel pain, soreness, and swelling in the Achilles tendon area, an MRI might be in order. Continue reading →
Sports injuries have been affecting athletes of all kinds practically since the beginning of time. They can lead to intense pain and discomfort that can stop athletes from doing what they love the most. That’s participating in physical activity. If you have any kind of sports injury, you need to have it evaluated as soon as possible. Your doctor may request multiple tests to assess the root of the problem as well. MRIs, MRI arthrograms, CT scans, Xrays, and Ultrasounds are all common tests amongst people who have experienced sports injuries. MRI arthrograms are special MRIs that require an injection into the joint performed by our fellowship trained musculoskeletal radiologists prior to imaging to evaluate subtle structures such as the labrum and ligaments. CAT scans are three dimensional xrays that enable healthcare professionals to analyze bones and joints in high resolution. MRI are the diagnostic workhorse in musculoskeletal imaging to assess for bone and soft tissue injuries. Thankfully, The Radiology Clinic in Rockville, MD, can use these tests to pinpoint sports injuries in patients with their state of the art imaging center and skilled medical team.
One of the most informative and useful pregnancy monitoring tools is ultrasound, also known as a sonogram. 
This non-invasive procedure uses a plastic transducer to send high-frequency soundwaves to the pregnant woman’s uterus. These soundwaves are then transmitted back to a high-tech machine which converts them into images of the fetus.
When we use the old phrase declaring someone “needs to have his head examined,” we don’t usually think of the Radiology Department. However, if that phrase is meant literally, a facility, such as The Radiology Clinic, is the best possible place for an examination because of great advances made in regards to imaging the brain. While traditional x-rays give an overview of bony structures, CT and MRI are the modalities of choice when doctors need to see inside the head. There’s some overlap in what each method covers, but both produce excellent images and have practical application.
Radiologists utilize Computed Tomography (CT) scanning to look for signs of lung disease without cutting into the chest. Low dose CT scanning is a preventative measure that can catch pathology including lung cancer in the early stages. Doctors use this method to develop the right medical treatments for their patients. CT scanning has several uses and benefits for doctors who need to treat lung disorders.
Rheumatoid Arthritis (or RA) is a chronic inflammatory condition that currently affects over one million Americans. This disease occurs when the body mistakenly attacks its own body tissues. This disease affects the lining of joints called the synovium. The disease often presents with painful joints. Over time, this can destroy cartilage and bone. It can also affect other body organs such as the heart, eyes, and the lungs. Physicians depend on radiology imaging procedures such as x-rays and MRIs to diagnose and monitor progression of this illness. These invaluable diagnostic tools are utilized in conjunction with blood tests to provide the safest, most effective treatments for patients.
Sciatica is a very common condition where a person experiences pain along the sciatic nerve. This pain can radiate from the lower back into the hips, buttocks, and legs. It is usually caused by a bone spur or herniated disc, and typically only affects one side of the body. For many, the pain from sciatica can be debilitating.
Imaging studies are usually needed to diagnose the cause of sciatic nerve pain. An MRI of the lumbar spine will show many causes of low back pain and sciatica, including disc herniations, facet arthritis, and lumbar spinal stenosis. Digital x-rays and CT scans may also be used to diagnose the cause of sciatica. Once the cause of the pain is identified, treatment options can be explored by your physician..
A stress fracture is a common sports injury caused by overuse. When the muscle becomes fatigued and is unable to absorb any more shock, it transfers the excess stress to the bone, causing a tiny crack. This tiny crack is the stress fracture.
Peripheral artery disease, also referred to as PAD, in the lower extremities can cause a lot of discomfort. Pain or cramping most likely occurs during periods of activity, even if you are doing something as simple as walking. For some individuals, this pain can occur even during periods of rest. Other symptoms of peripheral artery disease in the lower extremities might include discoloration of the skin or ulcers. While pain and discomfort generally tends to go away after a few minutes of rest, PAD should be properly diagnosed so that effective treatment may begin to prevent worsening of the situation.
