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Diagnostic Imaging

HSHS St. Mary's Hospital Radiology Services offers the latest in health care technology to patients and physicians in our region.

Imaging doctor reviewing imagery from lab results and testing

With this technology, those who come to our hospital are assured they receive the most advanced care close to home.

Our talented physicians and team use this technology to accurately identify fractures, ultrasounds for expectant mothers, and screening life-threatening diseases, such as cancer, breast cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer's disease at earlier stages, providing hope and saving lives.

To schedule diagnostic imaging services, please call 217-464-2984.

Patient in CT scanner with technician assisting

CT Scans

Computed Tomography (CT or CAT scan) is a non-invasive procedure that enables medical professionals to obtain accurate diagnostic information on many areas of your body. The CT uses x-rays to produce a cross-sectional image (or slice) of the areas of your body being examined. Our state-of-the-art CT scanners are capable of capturing entire organs in seconds. They provide outstanding image detail for any exam, including cardiac, head, spine, and abdominal and vascular studies.

This technology allows us to image smaller structures with great detail and resolution in even the most challenging applications. CT captured images give your doctor an unprecedented level of detail needed to treat disease and life-threatening illnesses. CT at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital gives:

Greater diagnostic confidence
Faster scans
Optimized radiation doses
Shorter breath holds for less discomfort
Non-invasive exams with no recovery time

As a patient:

If instructed, drink contrast (a liquid that improves the image) 1 1/2 hours before your CT.
The test may take 10 minutes to 2 hours, depending on whether contrast is used and the part of the body being scanned.
Arrive on time to check in, you may be asked to change into a hospital gown.
You may be given contrast through an intravenous (IV) line or by injection.
You will lie on a table. The table slides into the CT scanner.
The technologist will ask you to hold your breath for a few seconds during your scan.
After your test, you can go back to your normal diet and activities right away. Any contrast will pass naturally through your body within a day.

Patient in an MRI machine with technician looking on

MRI

St. Elizabeth’s Hospital offers the cutting-edge 1.5T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system. The system is the quietest MRI on the market to the extent that there is no ear protection necessary for maximum patient comfort. The 1.5T MRI delivers high-speed, high-resolution imaging that produces accurate and reliable results with unmatched image quality. The new system design features superior coil technology that allows clinicians to perform multiple exams without repositioning the patient.

In comparison to other higher magnetic resonance machines, the patient friendly 1.5T offers significant advantages including wide frame opening and larger cabin space. The magnet is housed in a comfortable, relaxing environment designed to minimize patient anxiety.The MRI capabilities include non-contrast MRA technique, a method of non-invasive angiography that images the arterial and/or venous system without contrast injection. This is especially useful for patients with decreased renal function because of direct side effects caused by contrast injections. The system also offers sophisticated breast imaging and guidance for breast biopsy.

As a patient:

MRI uses strong magnets, so you will be asked to remove your watch, jewelry, and other metal objects.
You may be asked to remove your makeup, which may contain some metal.
The test takes 30-60 minutes.
You may be injected with contrast (a special “dye” that improves the MRI image).
You will lie down on a platform that slides into the magnet.
After your test, you can get back to normal activities right away. If you were given contrast, it will pass naturally through your body within a day.

Nuclear Medicine

Nuclear medicine is a radiology subspecialty using trace amounts of radioactive material to diagnose and treat many diseases. Nuclear imaging does not require surgery. Instead, it relies on radioactive drugs or radiotracers.

The radiotracer can be injected, swallowed or inhaled as a gas, depending on your test. It gives off gamma rays, which are detected by a Nuclear Medicine scanner, a special camera or a probe. Using a computer, your health care team will measure the amount of the radiotracer absorbed by the body to produce images offering details of your body to help in your diagnosis and treatment.

At St. Mary's Hospital, Nuclear Medicine is used to:

Analyze the functions of organisms such as kidney, gallbladder and lungs
Check bones for fractures, tumors, etc.
Visualize blood flow
Monitor presence or spread of cancer
Locate infection in the body

As a patient:

You will be given a tracer (radioactive material). It may be injected, swallowed, or inhaled.
Your scan may then be done right away, or you may need to wait a few hours or even days to allow the tracer to concentrate in the part of the body being studied.
Your scan may take a few hours. Bring something you can do if you need to wait.
You will lie on a narrow imaging table; a large camera is placed close to your body.
Remain as still as you can while the camera takes the pictures to ensure the best imaging.
After your scan, drink plenty of water to help clear the tracer from your body.

More Imaging services

Interventional Radiology

Interventional radiology, commonly referred to as IR, is the combination of very small instruments and digital imaging. Interventional radiologic procedures use diagnostic-type imaging equipment to assist a physician in the treatment of a patient's condition. These procedures frequently provide favorable medical results with minimal recovery time. In some cases these procedures avoid the need for conventional surgery or improve the prospects for a favorable outcome from surgery. Our interventional equipment is located on 6th floor or within the Radiology Department depending on the exam scheduled.

Procedures Performed