Radiology
Phelps
Complete Radiology Services:
Phelps Memorial Hospital Center has one of Westchester County's most advanced,
state-of-the-art radiological services. The fully digital Phelps Radiology Department
has been certified by the New York State Department of Health. Our Mammography,
CAT Scan, MRI, Nuclear Medicine, and Ultrasound have all been certified by the
American College of Radiology (ACR). Our services include: Diagnostic X-Ray,
Mammography, Nuclear Medicine, CAT Scan, Ultrasound, Angiography / Interventional
Radiography, Bone Densitometry and MRI.
PACS (Picture Archiving Communication System)
The hospital utilizes PACS (Picture Archiving Communication System), which enables all images to be stored electronically and viewed from multiple computer locations by several clinicians at the same time. This facilitates discussion and collaboration for the benefit of the patient. All digital images can be copied onto CD or DVD disks for our patients or clinicians. This allows the images to be viewed on any computer.
The radiologists use Powerscribe voice recognition dictation software. This
allows reports to be typed, signed by the radiologist and faxed to the referring
doctor automatically within minutes of being dictated.
Diagnostic Imaging
CAT Scan
In the mid 1970s, computed tomography (CT) scanners revolutionized x-ray diagnosis, combining the power of x-ray technology and computers, and allowing a view of wafer-thin cross sections of internal anatomy to diagnose disease, internal abnormalities, and trauma damage.
Phelps' CT scanner is the GE LightSpeed Ultra 16 CT Scanner. This state-of-the-art
scanner can simultaneously scan as many as 16 adjacent slices in one second.
Formerly, patients undergoing a CT scan needed to hold their breath for extended
periods to prevent blurring of the image. With the new scanner, sharp, high-resolution,
sub-millimeter slices are produced in a single, short breath-hold. Radiologists
can combine the slices into 3-D color images that enable them to get
a more accurate picture of the internal anatomy. They can also see areas from
different vantage points, which is especially beneficial if surgery may be required.
For the patient, the new CT scanner is more comfortable, faster, provides better
diagnoses, and in many cases reduces the need for an invasive diagnostic procedure.
One of the special tests that the CT scanner can perform a CT Angiogram (CTA) of the chest. This test is used with a fast bolus of i.v. contrast to determine if the patient has a pulmonary embolism. (A blockage of the pulmonary arteries of the heart.)
Another one of the special tests that the CT scanner can perform is a Calcium Scoring Test to determine if there are areas of hardening (calcium plaque) in the coronary arteries. The test is comfortable for the patient and does not require contrast injection. A "calcium score" is obtained, which helps assess the risk of heart disease. This is incorporated with other clinical information and provides the patient with a chance to make lifestyle changes or take other steps toward early intervention to counteract arteriosclerosis.
Virtual Colonoscopy can also be performed by the CT scanner. This test
examines the colon for polyps, and provides 2D and 3D images for interpretation
by the radiologists. A scan is taken of the patient lying on his back and on
his stomach and requires only 18 seconds on each side. Detecting a pre-cancerous
polyp can alert the patient to take preventive steps before a more serious condition
develops. Phelps continues to offer traditional colonoscopies in the Thomas
E. and Alice M. Hales Endoscopy Unit, since
this established method remains the American College of Gastroenterology's preferred
screening test.
The Radiology Department also has:
- Diagnostic X-Ray to examine body parts and organs.
- A state-of-the-art Angiography Suite with 3-D Reconstruction.
Angiography is a diagnostic radiology exam that obtains images within a blood
vessel. It is used to detect and evaluate narrow areas, blockages, aneurysms,
or other possible problems with blood vessels that affect blood flow. Interventional
radiologists use angiography to perform procedures such as angioplasty, in
which a balloon is introduced to open up blockages. Other procedures performed
by interventional radiologists using angiography include: dissolving or removing
blood clots, inserting feeding tubes, and relieving pressure around the kidney
or liver so that stones can be removed endoscopically. Previously, angiogram
pictures were produced on conventional X-ray film, but the new system allows
them to be stored and viewed as digital images, which can be readily transmitted
electronically.
- Phelps Memorial Hospital Center utilizes Digital
Mammography to complement the other diagnostic services that aid in the
early detection of breast cancer. The incorporation of revolutionary imaging
technology provides incredibly sharp images. Digital Mammography uses a special
detector to capture and convert x-ray energy into a digital image. The radiologist
can view and manipulate the digital images on high resolution computer monitors
that enhance visualization of the structures within the breast tissue. They
can also adjust the brightness and contrast as well as zoom in on specific
areas of interest to help detect small calcifications, masses, and other changes
that may be early signs of cancer.
To supplement this technology, Phelps has incorporated digital Computer Aided Detection (CAD). This software flags abnormalities to help the radiologist detect early signs of breast cancer. In essence, CAD is a second set of eyes to support and enhance the radiologist's diagnosis.
We also offer a digital stereotactic system that aids the surgeon during breast biopsy procedures.
- Phelps utilizes a state-of-the-art Bone Densitometry system that
provides an Osteoporosis Assessment with speed and accuracy. It also has the
capability of doing a vertebral assessment for risk of fractures.
- The Ultrasound department utilizes sound waves to examine body parts
and monitor organ function in real time. Real time studies include Doppler
and Carotid Studies which utilizes color to show flow in blood vessels.
Our state-of-the-art equipment is computerized and provides us with unrivaled
image quality.
- The Nuclear Medicine section uses very small amounts of radioactive isotopes which are injected into the body and traced with specialized equipment. This equipment includes a computer, which is used to study heart function in both resting and stress conditions. Other tests, such as bone scans and thyroid scans are done in the nuclear medicine department.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Center 
- Phelps offers the latest in non-invasive neuro, muscular, and abdominal
magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technology.
- An M.R.I. exam is simple and quick scan of body parts.
- An M.R.I. exam that usually takes 30 minutes or less, is a painless procedure
which provides information on the condition of the brain, spine, joints, and
many other organs.
- The high sensitivity of the Phelps M.R.I. assures precise diagnosis which can eliminate the need for other costly procedures and reduce the possibility of hospitalization.
About Our Staff & Equipment
- PMRC uses a General Electric 1.5 High Field Tesla Signa Imaging System.
- PMRC is staffed by experienced radiologists with skilled sub-specialty
training in neuroradiology, musculoskeletal radiology and abdominal imaging.
- Our facility is open seven days a week:
- Appointments can usually be made for same day scanning.
- A copy of the scan and final report are usually delivered to your doctor
within 12-24 hours.
Radiology Telephone:
(914) 366-3430