Information for Patients
Below are brief descriptions of our radiology services with links to more information.
MRI / MRA
The physician practice of UT Health San Antonio offers a complete range of MRI/MRA imaging services. MRI stands for magnetic resonance imaging. MRI is an imaging device that uses a magnetic field to create images of any part of the body. Some scans require an injection of a contrast material. The length of the exam can take anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour per procedure depending on the exam ordered.
No types of metal, keys, credit cards, watches, jewelry, coins, pacemakers and certain types of surgical implants are permitted in the MRI room at anytime. If you have problems with claustrophobia, please discuss this with your physician prior to your scan. Please wear clothing that is free of metal buttons and zippers.
CT scan
CT stands for computed tomography. We have a 64 Slice CT scanner that provides superior and faster diagnostic information with less radiation and higher resolution resulting in superior image quality and greater diagnostic confidence. Some CT scans require special preparation, for example NPO, oral contrast or pre-medication if allergic to iodine.
Digital x-ray
An x-ray (radiograph) is a noninvasive medical test that helps physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions. Imaging with x-rays involves exposing a part of the body to a small dose of ionizing radiation to produce pictures of the inside of the body. X-rays are the oldest and most frequently used form of medical imaging.
Bone density screening
Bone densitometry, also known as DXA scan, is used to determine bone mineral density in patients. This is used in diagnosing osteoporosis, a disease that affects millions of Americans, primarily postmenopausal women. A bone density scan also determines fracture risk by measuring sites in the body that are most common for adult fractures. The scanner we use is the GE Lunar Prodigy Advance. It is a very safe, state-of-the-art, low-dose x-ray machine that produces images of the spine, hips, forearms, or even the whole body. The painless test takes only a few minutes.
Ultrasound
Ultrasound imaging uses high-frequency sound waves to produce pictures of the inside of the body. Unlike x-rays, ultrasound exams do not use radiation. Because ultrasound images are captured in real time, they can show the structure and movement of the body's internal organs, as well as blood flowing through blood vessels.