Lackey Memorial Hospital Radiology Services

Accreditation: American College of Radiology (Mammography, CT, MRI)

At Lackey Memorial Hospital’s Department of Radiology, we offer state-of-the-art imaging in a healing and personalized environment. With 24/7 coverage by licensed radiologic technologists, we use advanced equipment to provide exceptional care, covering a wide range of imaging needs.

Our MRI imaging is now available 5 days a week, Monday-Friday. 

Michea McLemore, B.S., R.T.(R)(M)(CT) Director of Radiology

Purpose: General radiology, also known as x-ray imaging, uses high-energy radiation to create detailed images of bones, tissues, and organs, allowing physicians to diagnose and assess various conditions, including broken bones, infections, and certain cancers.

What to Expect:

  • Procedure: X-ray is a non-invasive, quick, and painless test where you’ll be asked to stand or lie down while a technologist positions the machine over the specific area to capture images.
  • Conditions Diagnosed: Fractures, infections, pneumonia, arthritis, digestive issues, and tumors.

Benefits of X-rays: X-rays provide clear, immediate images that allow your physician to make timely decisions on treatment, making it an invaluable tool in both emergency and routine care.

Purpose: Digital mammography uses x-rays to create detailed images of the breast, helping to detect early signs of breast cancer and other abnormalities. Our advanced 3D mammography technology enhances comfort and provides highly accurate imaging for more reliable results.

What to Expect:

  • Procedure: During a mammogram, each breast is positioned on a platform and gently compressed to capture clear images. The 3D technology produces multiple images from different angles, which can be magnified and enhanced for a comprehensive evaluation.
  • Comfort Features: Our 3D mammography system is designed for a more comfortable experience, helping to reduce discomfort during imaging.

Advantages of Digital Mammography: Digital mammograms provide clearer images that can be enhanced and analyzed in detail, improving early detection and diagnostic accuracy.

Purpose: Ultrasound imaging, or sonography, uses sound waves to create images of organs, blood vessels, and soft tissues. Unlike x-rays, ultrasound does not involve radiation, making it a safe and versatile diagnostic tool for various conditions.

What to Expect:

  • Procedure: During an ultrasound, a gel is applied to the skin over the area being examined. A technologist moves a handheld device, called a transducer, over the gel, which sends sound waves into the body and captures images.
  • Patient Comfort: Ultrasounds are non-invasive and painless.
  • Preparation: Some exams may require fasting or a full bladder, which will be explained during scheduling.

Common Uses of Ultrasound: Diagnosing conditions in the abdomen, pelvis, heart, and blood vessels, as well as guiding certain procedures.

Technology: 16-Slice Scanner

Purpose: A CT (Computed Tomography) scan combines x-rays with computer processing to create cross-sectional images, or “slices,” of bones, blood vessels, and soft tissues. CT scans provide highly detailed views of internal structures, which are essential in diagnosing injuries, diseases, and other complex conditions.

What to Expect:

  • Procedure: You’ll lie on a table that slides into a large, circular scanner. The machine rotates around you, taking multiple images.
  • Preparation: Some scans require drinking an oral contrast or fasting. If contrast dye is used, it may be administered via IV to enhance the images.
  • Comfort Measures: Some scans require you to hold your breath briefly for better imaging, and our team will guide you through each step.

Conditions Diagnosed: Tumors, internal bleeding, bone fractures, infections, and vascular diseases.

Technology: 1.5T High-Field, Wide-Bore MRI

Purpose: MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of organs, tissues, and the nervous system. Unlike CT scans, MRI does not use radiation, making it ideal for frequent imaging needs.

What to Expect:

  • Procedure: You’ll lie on a table that slides into a cylindrical magnet. Depending on the scan type, you may enter feet- or head-first. A small surface coil may be placed near the area being examined to improve image quality.
  • Comfort Features: Our 1.5T wide-bore MRI provides up to 70 cm of open space, with nearly one foot of clearance for the head, helping to reduce any feelings of confinement. It can accommodate patients up to 550 pounds.
  • Preparation: Patients should remove all metal objects, and some may require IV contrast.

Benefits of MRI: Highly detailed imaging for diagnosing neurological issues, joint conditions, and soft tissue injuries. It’s particularly useful for complex diagnoses requiring in-depth views.

Purpose: An echocardiogram, or “echo,” uses ultrasound technology to assess the heart’s structure and function, including how blood flows through the heart chambers and valves. It is a valuable tool for diagnosing and managing heart conditions.

What to Expect:

  • Procedure: A gel is applied to the chest area, and a transducer is placed on the skin to capture images of the heart from different angles.
  • Specialized Interpretation: A cardiologist interprets the images to assess heart health and function.

Common Uses of Echocardiograms: Diagnosing heart diseases, assessing damage from heart attacks, and evaluating heart valve function.

Contact Lackey Memorial Hospital’s Radiology Department at (601) 333-0972 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our radiology services and preparation requirements. Our team ensures you receive the highest quality care and the most accurate imaging for your health needs.