Prairie Lakes’ Radiology Department offers the following specialized procedures:
CT Guided Biopsies
A CT-guided biopsy is when a CT scanner is utilized to aid the Radiologist in collect tissue samples to be sent to a Pathologist for testing. The patient is positioned on the CT scan table. Using x-rays and advanced computer programs, the CT scanner will create detailed images of the body. The Radiologist will use these images to accurately insert a needle into the tissue to collect the needed samples. This is a minimally invasive procedure. Depending on the area being biopsied, the Radiologist may elect to perform the procedure with Ultrasound guidance in place of the CT scanner.
Fine Needle Aspirations
A fine needle aspiration is a diagnostic procedure used to collect tissue samples of abnormalities such as masses and lumps, or fluid located just below the skin. Using imaging guidance, a thin, hollow needle is inserted into the abnormality and a sample is taken to be sent to a Pathologist for further testing. This is a minimally invasive procedure.
Joint Injections
Joint injections are used in the treatment of inflammatory joint diseases such as arthritis, tendonitis, gout and bursitis. An injection of a steroid or other medication is made into a joint in order to reduce inflammation, swelling and pain. These procedures are done utilizing real-time imaging called fluoroscopy (fluoro).
Arthrograms
An arthrogram is a diagnostic test used to study joints. Real-time fluoroscopy imaging is used to guide the placement of a needle into the joint. A contrast material is then injected and this contrast allows the Radiologist to see the state of the joint, bone and surrounding tissue, ligaments, cartilage and muscle. These studies are usually done in conjunction with MRI or CT.
Barium Studies
Barium is a white chalk-like radiopaque contrast that is used in liquid form to visualize the esophagus, stomach and small bowel under fluoroscopy. Patients are given the option of flavoring the barium to make it more palatable.
Barium Enema
Barium enemas are performed to evaluate the large intestine (colon) for any abnormalities such as strictures, diverticulum or polyps. These procedures are often ordered after an incomplete colonoscopy when the surgeon is not able to visualize the entirety of the patient’s colon due to sharp turns in the colon structure. During the barium enema, a tip is inserted into the patient’s rectum and barium is used to retrograde fill the large intestine. A patient may notice slight cramping as the barium moves to the junction of the small intestine. The Radiologist may have the patient roll slightly on the table to visualize the entirety of the colon and will take multiple pictures using the fluoroscopy camera.