Centinela Radiology offers our patients in Los Angeles our comprehensive diagnostic imaging services. Our state-of-the-art facility is equipped with the latest diagnostic imaging technologies to ensure an accurate and speedy diagnosis.
Doctors and patients in Los Angeles request our imaging services when they want accurate results quickly in a convenient location. If you are scheduling an imaging study at one of our locations, tlet Centinela Radiology put our expertise and technology to work to give you peace of mind.
X-rays use electromagnetic radiation to pass through solid objects. In medicine, they are used to view images of bones and other structures inside the body.
X-rays also provide image guidance before or after some medical procedures.
Procedure: The body part in question is placed between the X-ray source and the X-ray detector. A shield protects the rest of the body from radiation. The X-ray technician stands behind a curtain or leaves a room, then turns on the machine to take images of the area. Images are taken one at a time. After each image, the technician may return to the room to reposition the body part as needed. Multiple angles are recommended for best viewing. Special dyes may be administered during or before the procedure to make the image clearer if needed. Centinela Radiology uses digital X-rays which allow the radiologist to magnify and manipulate the image for better viewing. X-rays are quick and not painful, but the patient must remain very still during the procedure to ensure clear images.
An MRI is an imaging tool used to diagnose disease or injuries, particularly of soft tissues. A complex system of magnets and radiofrequency coils are analyzed via computers to create a real-time image of the inside of the body.
MRIs also help guide surgical procedures with image guidance.
Procedure: Patients are usually awake for an MRI. A special dye known as a contrast solution may be injected by IV before the procedure. During the procedure, patients lie down on a bed that slides into the tube that houses the magnetic imaging components. This tube is open on both ends, like a donut. Patients are asked to lie still as the MRI reads the area of the body that needs study and creates the image. There is an intercom system so the patient and radiologist can communicate during the procedure if necessary, although talking or moving without reason is discouraged. An MRI is not painful but may cause discomfort for patients who have a fear of enclosed spaces. An MRI usually takes 30 to 90 minutes.
Computed tomography scans use X-ray technology to show detailed pictures of bones, organs, and other tissues in the body. The advanced technology uses computer analysis of images from a rotating X-ray machine to create cross-sectional slices of the target site. This allows a radiologist to pinpoint a problem with extreme accuracy and clarity.
CT scans are also used to help guide procedures such as biopsy, aspiration and drainage.
Procedure: During a CT scan, the patient lies down inside a large machine that looks like a tunnel. The inside of the CT machine rotates. X-ray images are taken from different angles. A special contrast dye may be injected for clearer imaging before the procedure. The total procedure time is usually less than one hour. A CT scan is not painful but may be uncomfortable due to mechanical noises and restrictions on movement.
Diagnostic ultrasound is an imaging tool that uses high-frequency sound waves to create detailed images of internal body structures. Ultrasound can be used in any part of the body. However sound doesn't travel well through bone or air, so ultrasound isn't effective for imaging body parts that lie beneath bone, such as the brain or lungs.
Ultrasounds also help guide some medical procedures to improve accuracy and effectiveness.
Procedure: An ultrasound is a relatively comfortable procedure. A water-based gel is applied to the skin site. The sonographer places a small hand-held wand (transducer) on the area to be studied. The transducer is gently pressed into the skin, moving back and forth to create a clear image of the soft tissue. Most ultrasounds are external, for example, an abdominal ultrasound. Sometimes, an ultrasound wand is inserted internally. This includes a transvaginal ultrasound (uterus and ovaries) or transrectal ultrasound (rectum).
Centinela Radiology offers women's imaging services for improved diagnosis and treatment on conditions such as benign breast tumors, breast cancer, uterine fibroids, uterine adenomyosis, pelvic congestion, and reproductive issues.
A mammogram is a special type of X-ray used to detect lumps or abnormalities in the breasts. A mammogram only reveals whether a mass is present; it does not detect whether it is cancerous. A breast biopsy is needed to confirm whether a suspicious mass is benign or malignant.
Procedure: Screening and diagnostic mammograms are available. During a mammogram, the breast is placed between two firm surfaces that are then compressed. This is somewhat uncomfortable but is necessary to spread out the breast tissue so a clear X-ray image can be taken. The X-ray captures images of the internal breast tissue. The images are then displayed on a computer screen and examined by a doctor. Suspicious lesions may require a breast biopsy for further evaluation.
Nuclear medicine uses small amounts of radioactive materials to get diagnostic imaging results. An oral or liquid radiotracer agent may be used. This allows tissues to be viewed more clearly. Nuclear medicine looks for physiological traits such as cells, chemical interactions, and molecules.
Procedure: Radiopharmaceutical materials are given to the patient prior to the procedure. The material is taken up in variable amounts in organs and disease states. The radiopharmaceutical emission is detected by a camera, and used in conjunction with imaging to provide a diagnosis. .
If you live in Los Angeles, Centinela Radiology diagnostic imaging services are just moments away. Our procedures are performed by highly trained and capable radiologists using the latest imaging technology. We provide you and your healthcare providers with the information you need to ensure the best management approach. Schedule your diagnostic imaging test today by calling Centinela Radiology Medical Group at 310-673-4660.
Schedule an appointment today to experience why Centinela Radiology is the choice for diagnostic imaging solutions for patients around the country who need the right answers, right away.
Centinela Radiology’s expert team of doctors and staff have the talent and the tools to help make sense of your health. From diagnostic imaging to interventional radiology, our minimally-invasive procedures get to the core of your concerns, so we can get you back to being the image of health.
