Our exams and procedures, A to Z.

3D mammography, also known as digital breast tomosynthesis, is an FDA-approved, advanced breast imaging technology that provides a more detailed view of breast tissue than traditional 2D mammography.

Unlike conventional mammography, which produces flat, two-dimensional images, 3D mammography captures multiple low-dose X-ray images from different angles. These images are reconstructed into thin, detailed slices of breast tissue, allowing radiologists to examine the breast layer by layer. This helps reduce the effects of overlapping tissue, making it easier to detect potential abnormalities, particularly in women with dense breasts.

A 3D mammogram looks and feels much like a traditional mammogram. During the exam, an X-ray arm moves over the breast, capturing images from multiple angles. Each scan takes just a few seconds, and the entire exam typically lasts 15–20 minutes.

Amyloid brain PET/CT is an advanced imaging exam that detects amyloid plaques, abnormal protein deposits in the brain associated with Alzheimer’s disease. The scan helps physicians evaluate patients experiencing memory loss or cognitive changes, providing valuable information to support diagnosis and guide care decisions. Amyloid buildup can begin as early as 20 years before symptoms appear.

An angiogram is a specialized imaging exam that provides detailed images of blood vessels, helping physicians identify blockages, narrowing, or other abnormalities that may affect blood flow. It is commonly used to evaluate circulation in the heart, brain, and other areas of the body.

CT and MRI angiography may also be used to gain additional images of the arteries.

An arthrogram is an imaging exam that helps physicians find the cause of joint pain, stiffness, or limited movement, as well as injury to the components of the joint including the tendons, soft tissues, ligaments, labrum, cartilage and bones. It is commonly used to examine the shoulder, hip, knee, elbow, ankle, and wrist.

An MRI or CT scan may follow to provide more detailed images.

A bone density (DEXA) scan uses low-dose X-rays to measure bone density, typically in the hip and lower spine. This quick, painless exam helps physicians detect bone loss, diagnose osteoporosis, and assess the risk of fractures.

Because osteoporosis often develops without symptoms, a DEXA scan can identify weakened bones before a fracture occurs, so you and your doctor can discuss prevention or treatment.

Your provider may request a breast biopsy if a lump or abnormality is found during screening. A biopsy is a very accurate, minimally invasive method of locating and removing tissue for further investigation. Image-guided biopsy allows patients to avoid hospitalization and general anesthesia (previously necessary with traditional surgical biopsy). It is a valuable way to get a tissue diagnosis with less time, discomfort and cost than surgical biopsy, although a repeat or surgical biopsy is sometimes needed.

Depending on your medical needs, we provide different diagnostic biopsy procedures:

• Fine Needle Biopsy

  Fine needle aspiration (FNA) is the least invasive method of biopsy and it usually leaves no scar. You will be lying down for this procedure and will be given an injection of local anesthesia to numb the breast. The radiologist uses a thin needle with a hollow center to remove a sample of cells from the suspicious area.

• Ultrasound-Guided Breast Biopsy/Stereotactic Needle Biopsy

  In cases where an abnormality has been identified on imaging, the radiologist will use the appropriate imaging modality to guide a small caliber needle to the right location. When ultrasound is used, this is called “ultrasound-guided biopsy,” and if mammogram is used, it is called “stereotactic biopsy.”

• Core Needle Biopsy

  This procedure is similar to FNA but the hollow needle that is used is larger. You will be lying down and your breast will be numbed with local anesthesia. Using the hollow needle, the radiologist will remove several cylinder-shaped samples of tissue from the suspicious area. In most cases, the needle is inserted about 3 to 6 times so that the doctor can get enough samples. Usually, core needle biopsy does not leave a scar.

• MRI-guided biopsy uses MRI to guide the radiologist to the exact location of the lump. MRI biopsy is usually used when the lump can be seen on breast MRI, but cannot be readily seen on mammogram or ultrasound.

What happens during a biopsy procedure?

While the biopsy is performed, you will either remain seated in a comfortable, upright position or you will lie face down on a special table that allows your breast to be placed in an opening. The radiologist performs a core needle biopsy while your breast is somewhat compressed in the mammographic biopsy system. These are relatively quick procedures, taking about 10–15 minutes. With preparation and post-procedure time, you can expect the entire process to take about an hour to complete.

Early detection of breast cancer vastly increases survival rates. Regular mammograms can help detect cancer before symptoms appear, when it is often easier to treat.

We offer comprehensive breast imaging services, including advanced screening mammography, breast MRI, diagnostic imaging, and image-guided biopsies. Our goal is to support you in making informed decisions about your breast health.

Breast MRI is an advanced imaging exam that uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create detailed images of breast tissue. It can help detect abnormalities that may not be visible on a mammogram, without ionizing radiation and without the firm compression used in mammography.

For women at higher risk of breast cancer due to family history, genetic factors, or other conditions, breast MRI may be recommended in addition to regular mammograms. Talk with your doctor about your individual risk factors and whether additional screening is right for you.

Breast ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of breast tissue without radiation. During the exam, a small handheld device called a transducer is gently moved over the breast to capture images. The procedure is safe, generally painless, and noninvasive.

Breast ultrasound is often used to evaluate lumps or suspicious areas found during a mammogram or breast exam. It can also provide additional information for women with dense breasts. Ultrasound helps physicians distinguish between fluid-filled cysts and solid masses, supporting diagnosis and decisions about further testing.

Cardiac MRI uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create detailed images of the heart and surrounding structures. It helps physicians evaluate the heart’s chambers, valves, blood vessels, and overall function.

This noninvasive exam can help detect and monitor heart conditions, including damage from a heart attack, inflammation, and certain heart diseases. The images provide valuable information to help physicians make a diagnosis, assess heart health, and plan treatment.

Carotid ultrasound uses sound waves to produce pictures of the carotid arteries in the neck which carry blood from the heart to the brain. A Doppler ultrasound study, a technique that evaluates blood flow through a blood vessel, is usually a part of this exam. It is most frequently used to detect blockage or narrowing of the carotid arteries, which may increase the risk of stroke.

This exam is part of a sophisticated high-speed CT exam of the heart. During the scan, which takes just seconds, the equipment measures the amount of calcium present and calculates a score. The lower the score, the lower the potential risk of an adverse future cardiac injury. (Calcium often covers the atherosclerotic plaque that builds up inside arteries. This plaque and calcium can lead to narrowing of the inside of the arteries which could in turn lead to an increased risk of angina, and a heart attack.) This test can assess coronary heart disease, which is often asymptomatic and is the most common type of heart disease, the leading cause of death in the United States.

Digital mammography is a type of low-dose X-ray of the breast. It reveals masses and micro-calcifications within and around the breast that may indicate breast problems including, but not limited to cancer.

Experts recommend mammography screening at regular intervals to increase the chance of early cancer detection and treatment. The American College of Radiology recommends women aged 40 and older should have a screening mammogram every year and should continue to do so for as long as they are in good health.

X-ray is the oldest form of medical imaging. During the procedure, radiation passes through the body onto “film” (now digitized and displayed on a computer screen). In neuroimaging, spinal X-rays are used to assess the degree of spinal motion with flexion or extension.

Enterography is a noninvasive imaging procedure used to assess and evaluate certain gastrointestinal problems, such as inflammatory bowel disease (including Crohn’s Disease), infectious enteritis, lymphoma or tuberculosis. It also can be used in patients with gastrointestinal bleeding to determine if a small bowel polyp is causing the bleeding. Enterography may be performed using MRI or CT.

FDG brain PET/CT is an advanced imaging exam that measures how the brain uses glucose (sugar) for energy. It uses a small amount of radioactive material and specialized imaging technology to show patterns of brain activity that may indicate certain neurological conditions.

This exam helps physicians evaluate memory loss and different types of dementia, identify areas of the brain associated with seizures, and distinguish between recurring brain tumors and changes caused by radiation treatment. The results provide valuable information to support diagnosis and guide treatment decisions.

Fetal MRI is a specialized imaging exam that uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create detailed images of a developing baby during pregnancy. Unlike X-rays, MRI does not use radiation.

Fetal MRI is typically performed when an ultrasound identifies a possible abnormality or additional information is needed. It provides detailed images of the baby’s brain, chest, abdomen, and other organs, helping physicians better understand certain conditions, monitor development, and plan appropriate care before and after birth.

A hepatobiliary (HIDA) scan is a nuclear medicine imaging exam that evaluates how well the liver, gallbladder, and bile ducts are functioning. It helps physicians identify conditions such as gallbladder inflammation, blocked bile ducts, or bile leaks.

During the exam, a small amount of radioactive material is injected into a vein and travels through the liver and biliary system. A special camera tracks its movement, allowing physicians to assess bile flow, identify abnormalities, and determine appropriate treatment.

Hysterosonography, also called saline infusion sonography, is an ultrasound exam that provides detailed images of the inside of the uterus. It helps physicians investigate abnormal vaginal bleeding and identify conditions such as uterine polyps or fibroids.

During the exam, a small ultrasound device is inserted into the vagina, and a thin tube is used to introduce sterile saline into the uterus. The fluid helps create clearer images of the uterine lining, allowing physicians to identify abnormalities and determine whether further evaluation or treatment is needed.

AI-powered brain MRI analysis helps radiologists measure brain volume and white-matter changes.

The technology measures the size of different brain structures and compares them with what is typical for people of the same age and sex. It can also identify and track changes in brain lesions over time, helping physicians evaluate disease progression, make more informed diagnoses, and guide treatment decisions.

Pediatric interventional radiology uses advanced imaging technology to help physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions in children through minimally invasive procedures. Using imaging guidance, specially trained radiologists insert small instruments, such as needles or catheters, through tiny openings in the skin to treat tumors and other abnormalities.

Compared with traditional surgery, these procedures often involve smaller incisions, less pain, and less recovery time.

AI-powered MRI analysis helps physicians monitor multiple sclerosis (MS) by identifying and measuring areas of damage in the brain, called lesions or plaques. The technology tracks changes in their size, number, and location over time, helping physicians assess disease progression and make informed treatment decisions.

Lower-dose 3D mammography, also called tomosynthesis, is an advanced breast imaging exam that captures multiple X-ray images from different angles to create detailed, thin slices of breast tissue. This allows radiologists to examine the breast layer by layer, helping detect abnormalities that may be hidden by overlapping tissue.

Advanced imaging software creates 2D images from the 3D scan, eliminating the need for additional X-rays and reducing radiation exposure to levels similar to a traditional 2D mammogram.

The exam looks and feels like a regular mammogram. An X-ray arm moves over the breast, capturing images from multiple angles in just a few seconds. The entire exam typically takes 15–20 minutes.

Low-dose CT lung screening uses a small amount of radiation to create detailed images of the lungs, helping detect lung cancer before symptoms appear, when it is often more treatable.

The exam shows small lung nodules and other abnormalities in greater detail than a standard chest X-ray. Screening is recommended for people who meet guidelines based on age and smoking history. Early detection can lead to more treatment options.

A ventilation/perfusion (V/Q) lung scan is a nuclear medicine imaging exam that evaluates how well air and blood flow through the lungs. It is commonly used to detect blood clots in the lungs, known as pulmonary embolisms, and assess certain lung conditions.

During the exam, you breathe in a small amount of radioactive material to measure airflow, and a separate radioactive tracer is injected into a vein to evaluate blood flow. A special camera captures images that help physicians identify abnormalities and determine appropriate treatment.

Cranial nerve MRI uses specialized imaging techniques to create detailed images of the nerves that connect the brain to the head and neck. This exam helps physicians identify abnormalities that may affect vision, hearing, facial movement, sensation, or other nerve functions.

An MRI-guided breast biopsy is a minimally invasive procedure that uses MRI imaging to help the radiologist locate and collect tissue samples from a suspicious area in the breast. It is typically recommended when an abnormality is visible on MRI but cannot be clearly seen with mammography or ultrasound.

During the procedure, the breast is numbed with a local anesthetic, and MRI images guide a needle to the area of concern. Small tissue samples are collected and sent to a laboratory for testing. The procedure is usually performed on an outpatient basis, without the need for surgery or general anesthesia.

Neuroimaging uses CT or MRI scans to create detailed images of the brain, spine, nerves, and surrounding structures. These exams help physicians detect abnormalities, diagnose neurological conditions, and monitor treatment.

MRI provides detailed images of soft tissues without using radiation, making it especially useful for examining the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. CT scans are faster and provide excellent images of bones, making them valuable for evaluating injuries and checking healing after spinal surgery. The imaging method is selected based on the patient’s symptoms and medical needs.

A multi-gated acquisition (MUGA) scan is a nuclear medicine imaging exam that measures how well the heart pumps blood. It helps physicians evaluate heart function and identify potential problems.

During the exam, a small amount of radioactive material is injected into a vein, and a special camera captures images of the beating heart. MUGA scans are often used before, during, or after certain cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy, to monitor heart health and detect possible treatment-related side effects.

Myelography is an imaging exam that uses contrast dye and CT scanning to create detailed images of the spinal canal, spinal cord, and surrounding nerves. It helps physicians identify conditions such as pinched nerves, narrowing of the spinal canal, and bulging or herniated discs.

During the exam, contrast dye is injected into the fluid-filled space surrounding the spinal cord and nerves. A CT scan is then performed to capture detailed images. Myelography is often recommended for patients who cannot undergo an MRI or when additional information is needed to make a diagnosis.

This non-invasive exam shows how well blood perfuses (flows through) your heart muscle. Sometimes known as a nuclear stress test, it can be performed while the patient exercises on a treadmill or, if that is inadvisable, using a medicine that simulates the effect of exercise on the heart. Myocardial perfusion is an effective way to assess narrowed arteries, the effects of a past heart attack, or the viability of further procedures, such as a stent.

One of the more frequent applications of ultrasound is in the evaluation of a fetus. Most obstetricians perform a routine diagnostic ultrasound to look for abnormalities with the fetus or the mother’s anatomy during early pregnancy. Depending on the time of gestation and positioning, the gender may or may not be identified. This ultrasound procedure is painless and non-invasive.

Nuclear medicine uses small amounts of radioactive material, called radiotracers, to show how organs and tissues are functioning. Unlike imaging exams that primarily show the body’s structures, nuclear medicine helps physicians evaluate how different parts of the body are working.

Depending on the exam, the radiotracer may be injected, swallowed, or inhaled. A special camera then captures images that help physicians assess the heart, brain, bones, liver, kidneys, and other organs. Nuclear medicine may also be combined with CT or other imaging techniques to provide additional information.

These exams use carefully controlled amounts of radiation and have been performed on adults and children for many years. The amount of radiation exposure varies depending on the procedure.

Pelvic ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of the organs and structures in the lower abdomen and pelvis. It helps physicians evaluate the reproductive and urinary systems and identify conditions affecting the uterus, ovaries, prostate, bladder, and surrounding tissues.

Depending on the area being examined, the ultrasound may be performed over the abdomen or with a small ultrasound device inserted into the vagina or rectum. Pelvic ultrasound does not use radiation and is a safe, commonly performed imaging exam.

Prostate imaging uses advanced imaging technology, including MRI and ultrasound, to help physicians evaluate the prostate gland and identify conditions such as prostate cancer, an enlarged prostate, and inflammation.

These exams provide detailed images that help physicians detect abnormalities, determine whether further testing is needed, and guide treatment decisions. Prostate MRI can also help identify suspicious areas that may require a biopsy and guide more targeted tissue sampling.

For more information, visit our Prostate Health page.

Prostate MRI uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create detailed images of the prostate gland and surrounding tissues without using radiation. It helps physicians identify suspicious areas that may indicate prostate cancer and determine whether cancer has spread beyond the prostate.

The exam can also help evaluate an enlarged prostate, inflammation, and other abnormalities. Prostate MRI provides valuable information to guide decisions about biopsies, treatment, and ongoing care.

Image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT) uses advanced imaging technology to help deliver radiation treatment precisely to the prostate while limiting exposure to surrounding healthy tissues.

Because the prostate can shift slightly depending on how full the bladder or rectum is, imaging is used before each treatment to confirm its position. Depending on the treatment plan, physicians may use X-rays, ultrasound, or CT scans to guide positioning. In some cases, tiny metal markers are placed in the prostate to help locate it during treatment.

This approach helps ensure radiation is directed at the intended area. Your physician will determine the most appropriate imaging method based on your individual needs.

Prostate ultrasound uses sound waves to create detailed images of the prostate gland and surrounding tissues without using radiation. It helps physicians evaluate prostate enlargement, identify abnormalities, and guide procedures such as prostate biopsies.

During the exam, a small ultrasound probe is gently inserted into the rectum to capture images of the prostate. The procedure is generally safe and provides real-time images that help physicians assess prostate health and determine whether further testing or treatment is needed.

A renal ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of the kidneys and bladder without using radiation. This safe, noninvasive exam helps physicians evaluate kidney health and identify conditions such as kidney stones, cysts, blockages, or other abnormalities.

During the exam, a small handheld device is gently moved over the abdomen and lower back to capture images. The procedure is generally painless and provides valuable information about the kidneys and urinary system.

Scrotal ultrasound uses sound waves to create detailed images of the testicles and surrounding tissues without using radiation. It helps physicians evaluate pain, swelling, lumps, and other abnormalities in the scrotum.

During the exam, a small handheld device is gently moved over the scrotum to capture images. The procedure is safe, noninvasive, and generally painless. It can help identify conditions such as cysts, inflammation, fluid buildup, or problems with blood flow.

A sinus CT scan uses specialized X-ray technology to create detailed images of the sinuses, the air-filled spaces in the bones around the nose and eyes. It helps physicians identify inflammation, blockages, infections, and other abnormalities that may affect breathing or cause sinus problems.

The exam is quick, painless, and noninvasive. CT provides detailed images of the sinus passages, helping physicians diagnose chronic sinusitis and determine whether additional treatment may be needed.

A sodium fluoride (NaF-18) bone PET/CT scan combines two advanced imaging technologies to create detailed images of the bones throughout the body. It helps physicians identify abnormal bone activity, including changes that may indicate cancer has spread to the bones.

During the exam, a small amount of radioactive material called sodium fluoride is injected into a vein. The PET scan highlights areas of increased bone activity, while the CT scan provides detailed images of the bones. Together, these images help physicians detect abnormalities and guide treatment decisions.

A stereotactic breast biopsy is a minimally invasive procedure that uses mammography to precisely locate and collect tissue samples from a suspicious area in the breast. It is commonly used to evaluate small abnormalities, such as calcium deposits (calcifications), that cannot be felt or clearly seen with ultrasound.

During the procedure, the breast is numbed with a local anesthetic, and specialized X-ray images guide a needle to the area of concern. Small tissue samples are collected and sent to a laboratory for testing. The procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis, without the need for surgery or general anesthesia.

Deep-learning MRI reconstruction uses advanced artificial intelligence (AI) technology to produce high-quality images in less time. This technology can reduce MRI scan times by 40–60% while maintaining image quality comparable to traditional MRI.

Shorter scans mean patients spend less time in the MRI machine, making the experience more comfortable while still providing radiologists with the detailed images they need.

A three-phase bone scan is a nuclear medicine imaging exam that helps physicians identify bone fractures, infections, and other abnormalities that may not be visible on a standard X-ray. It is often used to investigate unexplained bone pain and conditions such as osteomyelitis (bone infection).

During the exam, a small amount of radioactive material is injected into a vein. A special camera captures images at three different stages to evaluate blood flow and activity in the bones. These images help physicians identify areas of inflammation, infection, or injury.

A thyroid scan is a nuclear medicine imaging exam that evaluates the size, shape, position, and activity of the thyroid gland. It helps physicians identify conditions such as an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), thyroid nodules, and other abnormalities.

During the exam, a small amount of radioactive material is swallowed or injected into a vein. A special camera captures images showing how the thyroid absorbs the material, helping physicians assess thyroid function and determine whether further testing or treatment is needed.

Thyroid ultrasound uses sound waves to create detailed images of the thyroid gland in the neck without using radiation. It helps physicians evaluate thyroid nodules (lumps), determine their size and characteristics, and identify abnormalities that may require further testing.

Transvaginal ultrasound uses sound waves to create detailed images of the uterus, uterine lining, ovaries, and surrounding pelvic structures without using radiation. It helps physicians evaluate pelvic pain, abnormal bleeding, fertility concerns, and other reproductive health conditions.

During the exam, a small ultrasound device is gently inserted into the vagina, similar to a gynecologic exam. This allows physicians to obtain clearer images of the pelvic organs and identify abnormalities that may require further evaluation or treatment.

TULSA stands for Transurethral ULtraSound Ablation of the prostate. RadNet is among the first in the medical community to offer this revolutionary treatment, which ablates diseased tissue while protecting the surrounding organs and structures. The zero-radiation treatment is customized to each patient and delivers significant advantages, such as minimal pain and a faster recovery. Learn more on our Prostate Health page.

Virtual colonoscopy, also called CT colonography, is a minimally invasive imaging exam that uses CT technology to create detailed, 3D images of the colon. It helps physicians detect polyps and other abnormalities that may be early signs of colorectal cancer.

During the exam, a small tube is inserted into the rectum to gently inflate the colon with air or carbon dioxide, allowing for clearer images. A CT scanner then captures images of the abdomen while you briefly hold your breath. The scan typically takes about 15 minutes, and most patients can return to normal activities immediately afterward.

Routine colorectal cancer screening is recommended beginning at age 45 for adults at average risk.