Early Cancer Detection Starts with Quality Imaging
By Buffalo Medical Group | February 16 2018 | Doctor Tips
Diagnostic Imaging is a way for our providers to take a look inside your body, and can be a vital part of cancer prevention and early detection. If you are in need of imaging services, it can often be confusing as to what each service is for, and why it’s important. For National Cancer Prevention Month, our team of imaging specialists wants to make sure you’re well-informed on our various imaging services, what they do, and why you may need them.
Imaging Services & Procedures:
Radiographs:
A radiograph is a digital image of your body utilizing xrays. For cancer prevention and detection, radiographs are most commonly taken of the chest as they may be able to identify lung cancer for instance. A radiograph is a fairly quick procedure, so may be used as an initial imaging test.
CT scan:
CT Scans combine a series of radiograph images from different angles to obtain cross-sectional images of your internal structures. Regarding cancer imaging, a CT scan is able to detect tumors, which may be identified at an early stage, and to evaluate treatment responses over time if you happen to have cancer. This information helps your oncologist determine the right treatment plan for you. The actual CT scan acquiring of images takes minutes.
3T Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI):
MRI uses strong magnetic fields to obtain images of your internal structures. MRI may be used to provide more information on a problem that was found on a radiograph, ultrasound or CT scan. MRI imaging is extremely effective at finding tumors, and can help determine the stage of cancer, and if it has spread to other parts of your body.
Mammogram:
Mammogram is a low-dose X-ray that allows your radiologist to examine your breast tissue visually, and identify changes or areas of concern. Mammograms are used to detect breast cancer, and can often detect breast cancer before you are even able to feel a lump, or experience any other symptoms. We have biopsy capabilities at our Essjay location in the case that a lump is detected.
Ultrasound:
An ultrasound creates images called sonograms by giving off high-frequency sound waves that go through your body. The sound waves bounce off your organs and tissues, which create echoes, and are sent back to the machine to create images. Ultrasound exams are able to detect the difference between a cyst and mass, and are often a first line imaging tool. The examination is painless, and relatively efficient, and can be utilized to help your provider determine the next steps to take in your treatment plan.
For more information on our Imaging Services, please call our imaging department at 716.857.8777.
We offer imaging services at our 295 Essjay Road location in Williamsville and 3900 North Buffalo Road location in Orchard Park.
You do NOT need to be a Buffalo Medical Group patient to utilize our imaging services.