Radiology
Using GHC-SCW Medical Imaging
GHC-SCW provides CT scans, X-rays, ultrasounds, mammograms, breast biopsy and bone mineral density tests.
Benefits of using GHC-SCW radiology include:
- We use cutting-edge technology and are accredited by the American College of Radiology.
- Our screening mammograms can be scheduled within 1-2 weeks. Other facilities can have longer waiting periods.
- You can schedule your screening mammograms through GHCMyChart.
- We share a system with other local organizations so your images can be sent to most other facilities for seamless continuation of your care.
- We have walk-in availability for X-ray at Capitol Clinic for your convenience.
Clinic Locations
X-ray can be done at our Capitol, East, Hatchery Hill and Sauk Trails Clinics. We have mammography, ultrasound, CT and bone density all located at our Hatchery Hill Clinic for convenience.
What to Expect With Medical Imaging
Your primary care provider or specialist will put in an order for you to get a specific test.
During all medical imaging tests, you will need to remain still and present. If you have to bring your children with you to your appointment, we ask that you bring another adult to watch them in the waiting room.
Radiology Services
You may need a CT scan to check different parts of your body to diagnose a potential medical condition. CT scans combine a series of X-ray images taken from different angles. It shows cross-sections of the bones and soft tissues in your body. The CT scanner is more thorough than a single X-ray. The images let your provider review with greater precision. Most CT scans will have specific preparation instructions
What to Expect
During a CT scan, you will lay still on a bed while the scanner slowly passes over your body. The machine has an X-ray tube and a monitor that sends information to a nearby computer. You have to stay as still as possible. Certain types of scans may take longer than others or may need an oral or IV contrast.
Your CT scan should not include any pain. If you have a IV contrast, you might feel slight discomfort.
CT Scan Clinic Locations
- Hatchery Hill Clinic
X-rays are used to look for broken bones or check your organs for any potential issues. They give providers a picture of what is going on in your body. A typical chest X-ray takes a picture of the lungs, heart, structures and the bones of the chest area.
What to Expect
An X-ray beam passes through your body and makes an image on X-ray film. You won’t feel any pain and the exam will take only a few minutes. You may sit, stand or lay on a bed depending on the area of your body that is getting X-rayed.
The employee taking your X-ray will walk behind a wall or into the next room to activate the machine. There will be clicks and buzzing during the X-ray and the technologist will let you know when they’re done and you can move freely. They might take a few images from different angles.
X-Ray Clinic Locations
- Capitol Clinic
- East Clinic
- Hatchery Hill Clinic
- Sauk Trails Clinic
Sound waves create a picture of your organs and other body structures in an ultrasound test. A small handheld instrument sends out and reflects back high-pitched sound waves to do this. A computer analyzes the waves and converts them into an image. Sometimes ultrasounds are also called sonograms.
What to Expect
Most ultrasound tests will have specific preparation instructions. The ultrasound technologist will help you through the steps. The ultrasound is painless and safe.
You’ll change into a gown and lie on your side or back on a bed. The ultrasound technologist will put a special gel on your skin over the area getting examined. The technologist will move the handheld transducer over the gel to get images inside your body. They’ll look at the images on their monitor. Once they’ve gotten enough images, they’ll wipe off the remaining gel. It might take between 30 minutes to an hour depending on your specific type of ultrasound.
Ultrasound Clinic Locations
- Hatchery Hill Clinic
A mammogram is a common way of detecting and locating a lump or tumor of the breast. Breast tissue is usually more dense than other body tissues so it’s harder to find a lump through touch. During the mammogram, low X-rays pass through the breast tissue and make an image of the inside of the breast.
GHC-SCW offers both 2D and 3D mammograms. 2D mammograms show a two-dimensional picture of the breast. 3D mammograms are a newer technology that uses multiple low-dose X-ray images from different angles. They create a picture that lets the Radiologist view the breast tissue in thin “slices.”
What to Expect
Mammograms have a reputation for being uncomfortable. Our staff will help make your visit as painless as possible.
You’ll undress in private and get a gown to wear. The technologist will place your breast on the machine. The plastic plate is lowered to compress your breast for about 10 to 15 seconds during the X-ray. This may feel uncomfortable or painful, but it will be over quickly.
For both 2D and 3D mammograms, your breast will be adjusted before the next image is taken. The standard number of images is four, but more images may be needed for a complete exam.
For a 3D mammogram, it’s similar to having a 2D mammogram. The main difference is that the X-ray arm sweeps in an arc over your breasts.
The whole procedure should only take about 20 minutes.
Preparing For Your Mammogram
On the day of your mammogram, please do not use deodorant, lotions or body creams. These sometimes cause images to be misinterpreted.
Mammogram Clinic Location
- Hatchery Hill Clinic
Based on the results of your mammogram, your provider might order a breast biopsy. This is a test to get more information. It can be done with a minimally invasive procedure known as needle core biopsy.
Preparing For Your Biopsy
On the day of the biopsy, please do not use deodorant, lotions or body creams. Dress in comfortable clothes. You’ll undress in private and get a gown to wear.
Read More About the Biopsy Procedure
After Your Biopsy
After the procedure, you can drive yourself home. We recommend going home and resting. You can also return to work if you have to. You should avoid any heavy lifting or physical labor, including aerobics and jogging for 24 to 48 hours. Also be sure to wear a tight-fitting bra for 24 to 48 hours after the procedure.
Read More After-Procedure Instructions
Breast Biopsy Clinic Location
- Hatchery Hill Clinic
A bone mineral density test helps estimate the strength of bones. The test uses X-rays to measure the amount of calcium and minerals contained in your bones. The most commonly tested bones include the spine, hip and forearm. This test is especially important if you’re at risk for osteoporosis.
What to Expect
The scan is painless and uses low-dose X-rays. You will be asked to remain still during the test.
Bone Mineral Density Clinic Location
- Hatchery Hill Clinic
