Procedures

Ultrasound

Ultrasound, also called sonography, uses high-frequency sound waves to generate images of the inner body. Ultrasound is used to diagnose a variety of conditions. It is used during pregnancy to check a developing baby's progressas well as routinely used to guide physicians who are doing biopsies and other invasive type procedures. The technologists who conduct general, vascular, cardiac, breast and OB ultrasounds all have advanced certifications in their specialty areas.

MRI

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses a combination of magnets, radio waves and computer technology to create images of the inner body. MRI is helpful in diagnosing tumors, infections, disorders or injuries of the brain, spinal cord, breast, vesselsand other internal organs. Three Rivers Community Hospital's MRI program and machine are accredited by the American College of Radiology, and the technologists have advanced training and certification in MRI.

X-ray and Fluoroscopy

X-ray has come a long way over the past century. Advanced X-ray technology captures detailed, digital pictures of internal organs, bones and tissue. To study some body parts, such as the stomach or kidneys, patients are given a contrast agent such as barium or iodine. This helps the X-ray generate clear pictures. X-rays combined with a video monitor, called fluoroscopy, can record moving images of the large intestine or colon.

With filmless X-ray, images appear on a computer screen, enabling physicians to see more detail and digitally enhance the images(similar to a digital camera). All technologists are licensed by the state of Oregon to conduct all X-ray and fluoroscopy procedures.

CT Scan

Computed tomography (CT) uses a combination of X-ray and computer technology to generate three-dimensional views of the inner body. CT scans are often used to diagnose brain and spinal cord disorders, detect tumors or infections, look at the heart vessels and help guide doctors doing biopsies.

Three Rivers Community Hospital offers a 64-slice CT machine, the most advanced CT technology available in our area.Our CT program and equipment is accredited by the American College of radiology, and the technologists have advanced training and certification in CT.

Heart Scan (Coronary Calcium Scoring)

A specialized CT scan that reveals calcium deposits in artery walls. These deposits are risk factors for heart attack and stroke.

Bone Density Scan

A bone density scan, also called a DXA (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) scan, uses X-ray technology to measure the strength of bone mineral in a person's body. Bone density scans can help diagnose osteoporosis or determine a person's risk of developing the disease.

Mammography

Three Rivers Community Hospital offers the latest and most advanced digital mammography system available in the world. The digital images are far superior to plain film mammography, particularly for women under the age of 50 with dense breasts. Our screening center is FDA-accredited, and all technologists have advanced training and certification in mammography. An on-site, certified breast health coordinator RN is available for immediate consult and to help coordinate any follow-up procedures that may be necessary.