One of the greatest achievements in modern medicine is the ability to “see” inside the body without invasion or incision. SMHC is a leader in the newest technologies of diagnostic medical imaging, with a wide range of powerful diagnostic tools from traditional x-rays to Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).
To provide more convenient radiology services for outpatients, SMHC has established the Southern Maryland Professional Radiology Offices on the hospital campus. We provide the most advanced services in the region, along with traditional x-rays, fluoroscopy, mammography, ultrasound, bone densitometry and CT scans.
Patients receive streamlined service in an outpatient setting, with the back-up of the SMHC emergency response team. In addition to the latest equipment, we have a highly skilled staff and outstanding board-certified physicians – all of whom go to great lengths to explain procedures, ensure comfort and safeguard the privacy of patients.
Radiology Services
X-rays Traditional X-rays are still the most widely used imaging technology and are particularly useful for chest X-rays or to diagnose skeletal fractures. X-ray pictures that look like negatives are “read” or interpreted by a radiologist – a physician specially trained to detect abnormalities to internal structures.
Fluoroscopy Fluoroscopy is a special form of X-rays involving the use of contrast agents, such as barium, that are introduced into the gastrointestinal tract. The X-rays are displayed on a monitor and the physician can view on a monitor, in real time, how the organs function.
Ultrasound Ultrasound uses sound waves, similar to radar, to create images of soft tissue anatomy. Ultrasound is particularly useful to view movement, such as an unborn baby’s heart or blood flow through certain areas of the body.
Computerized Tomography CT Scan gives the physician a three-dimensional view of specific areas. The CT Scanner sends a narrow beam of X-rays across a thin layer or “slice” of the body. A computer guides the scanner to send the beam to the next slice and, after the cross section of the organ is scanned, the computer puts the information together and creates a 3-D picture of the anatomy in a matter of minutes.
Mammography Mammography literally means “breast picture.” It’s a special X-ray technique used to detect breast cancer and other conditions long before they can be felt and while they are most treatable. In conjunction with mammography, our facility utilizes Computer-Aided Detection (CAD) to assist the radiologist with finding any abnormalities on the image.
Bone Densitometry A bone densitometer enables physicians to measure a patient’s bone density and soft tissue composition. This tool is most useful for diagnosing osteoporosis. Utilizing very low-level radiation, in just minutes the non-invasive, highly sensitive scanner can identify patients who are at increased risk for bone fractures.
One of the greatest achievements in modern medicine is the ability to
