Seton Medical Center Harker Heights (SMCHH) offers a full range of technologically advanced imaging services to provide patients with high-quality diagnostic and therapeutic services. Our imaging and radiology service teams provide exceptional care, working with doctors, nurses and other clinicians to deliver the comprehensive care that SMCHH is known for. Our digital imaging technology allows doctors to access test results immediately, so treatment can begin more quickly.
Imaging expertise, exceptional care
From angiography and X-rays to complex endoscopic procedures and digital mammography, we offer a full spectrum of advanced imaging services delivered by caring, knowledgeable technologists. We offer leading-edge technology to provide the latest in diagnostic techniques, including:
- Breast imaging
- CT scans
- Fluoroscopy
- MRI
- Nuclear medicine
- Ultrasound
- X-ray
Our highly trained imaging technologists are certified with advanced registries and are focused on patient safety and comfort.
Digital mammography
Mammography is an X-ray exam of the breasts used to screen for or diagnose breast cancer. SMCHH offers digital imaging technology for mammograms. With digital technology, radiologists can zoom in on particular areas or change brightness or contrast for even greater visibility, and results can be read immediately.
Breast ultrasound (sonography)
A breast ultrasound is often used to further evaluate an abnormality found during a mammogram. Ultrasound allows doctors to see the area closest to the chest wall, which can be difficult to see using mammography. This technology also helps doctors determine whether a breast lump is filled with fluid (a cyst) or is a solid mass. To schedule a mammogram online, click here or call 254-680-6362.
CT Scan
A CT or CAT (computed tomography) scan combines X-ray and computer technology to show highly detailed, 3-D images of any part of the body, including bones, muscles, fat, organs and blood vessels. Scans can also be performed using a contrast solution (either swallowed or injected) to make tissues and vessels more visible. We also perform pulmonary Computed Tomography Angiography (CTAs), renal CTAs and lower leg run-offs.
Fluoroscopy
Fluoroscopy uses X-rays to provide real-time images of the area being examined. It is often used to examine various body systems, including skeletal, digestive, urinary or reproductive, as well as organs such as the heart, lungs and kidneys. Fluoroscopy is commonly used to examine the intestines and large bowel and is most often performed using a contrast solution to make tissues and other structures more visible.
MRI
MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is a diagnostic procedure that combines a powerful magnet, radio waves and computer technology to provide detailed images of tissues, muscles, nerves and bones. Because MRI uses magnetic force and radio waves to create images, there is no radiation exposure during the procedure. MRI is often used instead of CT to study soft tissues or organs because bones do not obscure the organs and soft tissues as they do with CT imaging. MRI can be used to assess everything from ruptured discs in the spine to detecting brain tumors and vascular diseases.
Nuclear Medicine
Nuclear medicine is a specialized area of radiology that uses very small amounts of radioactive materials (given either orally or intravenously) to examine an organ’s structure and metabolic function.
Ultrasound
Ultrasound (or sonography) uses reflected sound waves to create real-time images of soft tissues, including muscles, blood vessels and organs. Because sound waves are used, there is no radiation exposure during this procedure. Although most commonly used to examine the fetus during pregnancy, it is also an effective tool for monitoring blood flow using Doppler ultrasound technology. Ultrasound can be used to discover abnormalities in organs and detect narrowed arteries, clotted veins or growths such as tumors and cysts.
X-ray
X-rays use invisible electromagnetic energy beams to produce images of internal tissues, bones and organs on digital media. Standard X-rays are performed for many reasons, including diagnosing tumors or bone injuries. X-ray technology is used in many types of diagnostic procedures, such as arteriograms, CT scans and fluoroscopy.
During an X-ray, different parts of the body allow varying amounts of X-ray beams to pass through. Soft tissues in the body (such as blood, skin, fat and muscle) allow most of the X-ray to pass through and appear dark gray on the film or digital media. A bone or a tumor, which is denser than soft tissue, allows only a few of the X-rays to pass through and appears white on the X-ray. At a break in a bone, the X-ray beam passes through the broken area and appears as a dark line in the white bone.