Diagnostic Imaging

This imaging method uses a thin X-ray beam, rotated around the patient, to obtain cross-sectional and three-dimensional views of your organs. Many consider it to be one of the best methods available for diagnosing certain diseases.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging ( MRI) is a noninvasive diagnostic procedure that uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of the organs and tissues within your body. Most MRI machines are large, tube-shaped magnets. When you lie inside an MRI machine, the magnetic field temporarily realigns hydrogen atoms in your body.

While X-rays allow doctors to look inside your body to find abnormalities, nuclear medicine enables them to see how your organs work. Generally, medication is taken either orally or intravenously; when viewed through a special scanner or camera, this medication highlights the operation of the selected organ.

3-D Mammography, or Digital Breast Tomosynthesis, produces a three dimensional image of the breast by using several low dose x-rays obtained at different angles.  Fine details are more clearly visible which reduces false positive results and detects more invasive breast cancers.

Learn more about our mammography services »

PET scans have proven to be one of the most useful methods in the early detection of cancer. With its ability to distinguish between healthy and unhealthy cells, it can detect cancer early on and also monitor the progress of therapies once cancer has been diagnosed. It is also useful when treating heart ailments and brain disorders.

Ultrasound, also known as sonography, is a noninvasive (the skin is not pierced) diagnostic test that produce pictures inside of the body using sound waves that can help in the diagnosis of a wide range of diseases and conditions.

Ultrasound is most recognized for pregnancy scans to capture images of the fetus. It is also used to image internal organs, such as the gall bladder, liver, kidneys, and female reproductive organs, as well as blood vessels throughout the body.

The Ultrasound sonographer will use a small transducer (probe) and ultrasound gel placed directly on the skin to acquire images that your doctor has requested.  Unlike x-rays, there is no radiation exposure.

Tuality Healthcare offers a variety of X-ray services at several locations, including Tuality Community Hospital and Forest Grove Hospital. Our technologists are licensed by the Oregon Board of Medical Imaging and provide you with the best possible images to aid in your diagnosis.

For many X-rays, you don’t need an appointment and simply need to bring in your physician’s order or have it faxed to us. Some exams, including fluoroscopy of the GI tract, joint injections, etc., will need to be scheduled and may require preparation.  This information will be provided at the time you schedule your appointment.