Three-dimensional mammography (also called digital breast tomosynthesis) creates a three-dimensional picture of the breast using x-rays. Several low-dose images from different angles around the breast are used to create the 3D picture. A 3D mammogram takes a few seconds longer than a 2D mammogram because more images are taken, but if you’ve had a mammogram in the past you won’t likely notice a difference. We encourage you to visit our Health Library to learn even more about breast imaging.

A dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA or DEXA) is a test to determine your bone density and mineral content which is then compared with what is normally expected in a healthy young adult of your sex. The bones that are most commonly tested are in the spine, hip and sometimes the forearm. Your test result will help your healthcare provider make recommendations to help you protect your bones or treat the early signs of osteoporosis.

Calcium scoring is the standard test to detect coronary artery calcification. CACS uses a Computed Tomography (CT) scan to find the buildup of calcium on the walls of the arteries of the heart. The test identifies your level of deposits and produces a calcium score. Normally, the coronary arteries do not contain calcium, therefore a finding of calcium in the coronary arteries is the earliest indicator of heart disease. Taking into account other factors such as age, family history and cholesterol level, your doctor uses this score to measure your potential for heart disease and to determine how severe it is. We encourage you to visit our Health Library to learn even more about Calcium Scoring.

Cardiac positron emission tomography (PET) uses a radioactive tracer to evaluate heart tissue functioning. It is a very accurate way to diagnose coronary artery disease and detect areas of low blood flow in the heart. A cardiac PET scan can help in determining if you’ll benefit from a cardiac procedure or surgery to restore blood flow. The tracers used for the scans can help identify injured but still living (viable) heart muscle that might be saved if blood flow is restored in time.

An echocardiogram is an ultrasound scan of the heart. The scan can give accurate pictures of the heart muscle, the heart chambers, and structures within the heart. Abnormalities such as damaged heart valves, thickened heart muscle, and some congenital heart defects, can be seen quite clearly. The echoes are detected by a probe that the operator moves around over the skin’s surface to obtain views from different angles. The images are displayed as a picture on a monitor and the images are constantly updated so the scan can show movement as well as structure. Please visit our Health Library to learn about the different types of echocardiography tests your physician may order for you.

An arthrogram is a two-part procedure used to obtain detailed pictures of the inside of a joint; commonly the shoulder, knee, hip, or wrist. After a contrast medium is injected by a needle into the joint, the radiographer obtains a series of MRI scans to help properly diagnose the cause of pain or restricted motion of a joint.