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Ultrasound
Ultrasound imaging, also called ultrasound scanning or sonography,
is a method of "seeing" inside the human body through the
use of high-frequency sound waves. The sound waves are recorded
and displayed as a visual image. No radiation is involved
in ultrasound imaging. An ultrasound is a useful way of
examining many of the body's internal organs, including
the heart, liver, gallbladder, spleen, pancreas, kidneys,
and bladder. Ultrasounds can show movement of internal tissues
and organs, and enable physicians to see blood flow and
heart valve functions.
Obstetric Ultrasound Imaging - specialized use of sound waves to visualize and thus determine
the condition of a pregnant woman and her embryo or fetus.
Pelvic Ultrasound Imaging - can show movement of internal tissues and organs, such as
the pumping of the heart and the flow of blood in arteries
and veins.
Digital Mammography
Mammography is a specific type of imaging that uses a low-dose x-ray system and high-contrast,
high-resolution film for examination of the breasts. Successful treatment of breast cancer
depends on early diagnosis. Mammography plays a central part in early detection of breast
cancers. Mammography can show changes in the breast up to two years before a patient or
physician can feel them.
Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton, a leader in medical technology,
is proud to offer Digital Mammography, a more precise method of mammography imaging.
This form of imaging uses digital images rather than film, which allows the image to be viewed
immediately in several different ways. It also provides the technologist with "a quick check"
on positioning, reducing the possibility for blurring. With this state-of-the-art technology,
radiologists have improved the ability to locate abnormalities (increased accuracy) and have
reduced the number of follow-up testing.
Mammotome Biopsy (Stereotactic)
The Mammotome biopsy is performed with local anesthesia
and requires only a small skin nick. Either stereotactic
(x-ray) or ultrasound will be used to locate the area of
concern within the breast. This procedure requires one insertion
of a small probe, through an incision the size of a match
head. Through a gentle vacuum, the Mammotome draws tissue
into the hollow chamber of the probe, allowing several samples
to be obtained without removing the probe from the breast.
The Mammotome is normally completed in a hour. This biopsy
procedure is performed in an outpatient setting, involving
no general anesthesia or stitches. Following the biopsy
the patient goes home with a small bandage to cover the
incisions site. This procedure causes less internal scarring
than open surgical biopsy. Less internal scarring is important
because it allows the radiologist to clearly see any new
abnormalities on future mammograms.
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