Radiology

The Department of Radiology and Imaging in Zulekha Hospital offers a wide range of imaging services and advanced procedures to diagnose a variety of conditions. Our radiology specialists have expertise in virtually every imaging area, including Abdominal imaging, Cardiothoracic imaging, Neuroradiology, Head and Neck imaging, Musculoskeletal Radiology, Breast imaging and Ultrasonography.

Patients are referred to these procedures by our hospital doctors as well as outside doctors.

The Department of Radiology and Imaging is equipped with state-of –the-art facilities including:

DIGITAL RADIOGRAPHY (X-RAY UNIT)

Routine x-rays of the body are performed for out-patients as well as in-patients with our Digital Radiography units.

FLUOROSCOPY SUITE

This uses dynamic imaging to look at internal organs in the body using contrast media such as Barium, to observe the Gastrointenstinal System and iodinated contrast, to observe the Urinary System. Then, Special Radiological procedures are performed under fluoroscopy-Intravenous Urography (IVU),Micturating CystoUrethrogram(MCUG), Barium studies for Esophagus, Stomach, Small and Large Intestines, Hysterosalpingography (HSG), Fistulography and Sinography.

THREE ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY ULTRASOUND UNITS WITH COLOR DOPPLER FACILITIES

Ultrasound is a form of diagnostic imaging that does not use ionizing radiation. Instead, sound waves are used, which reflect from the body tissues giving an image on the screen. There are three main areas where Ultrasound is performed:

• General Ultrasound: For abdomen, pelvis and soft tissues of the body.
• Obstetric Ultrasound: Performed to reveal the age of the fetus and to ensure its healthy development. 3D and 4D sonography of fetus has broadened the horizon in obstetrical imaging.
• Color Doppler Ultrasound: For abnormalities of arteries and veins of the body. Biopsy of Masses and Drainage of Abscess or Fluid can be performed under ultrasonography guidance.

MULTISLICE COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY (CT)

CT scanner used for examination of any part of the body. The CT is a specialized type of diagnostic imaging using x-rays, which is able to create cross-sectional imaging simulating ‘slices’ through the body. Whole body CT studies can be performed including CT angiography. Three dimensional imaging is also possible, for example, in orthopedic and facial reconstruction as well as in angiography. Biopsies can be performed under CT guidance to avoid the need for the patient to have an ‘open’ biopsy in an operating theatre.

MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING (MRI) - 1.5 TESLA

MRI uses magnets and radio waves to create an image of the body. It is extensively used for neurological and musculoskeletal imaging. MRI studies of brain, neck, chest, abdomen, and pelvis are also performed. There are possibilities for advanced studies like Diffusion Weighted Imaging, MR angiography, MR Venography, MR Cholangiopancreatography, MR Urography and MR spectroscopy. As MRI does not use ionizing radiation and can create detailed images of soft tissue, it can be used for the detection of many diseases. However, because of the magnetic field generated, it is not suitable as an imaging technique for patients who have pacemaker, metallic coils or other piece of ‘metal’ in their bodies.

MAMMOGRAPHY UNIT

Mammography is a specific type of imaging that uses a low dose x-ray system to examine breasts. Mammography is used to aid in the early detection and diagnosis of breast diseases.

BONE DENSITY SCAN

Bone density scanning, also called Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) or Bone Densitometry, is an enhanced form of x-ray technology that is used to measure bone loss. DEXA is today’s established standard for measuring Bone Mineral Density (BMD). DEXA is often performed on lower spine, hips and wrists. In children and some adults, the whole body is sometimes scanned. DEXA is most often used to diagnose osteoporosis, a condition causing bones to become thinner, more fragile and more likely to break.

PICTURE ARCHIVAL AND COMMUNICATION SYSTEM (PACS)

PACS has been installed in the Radiology and Imaging Department in order to facilitate rapid image processing and reporting.

NEURO-RADIOLOGY DIVISION

Neuro-radiology division focuses on imaging to diagnose disorders of the adult and pediatric brain, spine, and central and peripheral nervous system. High end award winning 1.5T MR Siemens MRI system is capable of performing one of the most comprehensive applications ranges available today. The unique combination of leading magnet and gradient technology together with revolutionary image acquisition techniques provides unsurpassed clinical benefits. Advanced neuro-imaging techniques are available to perform special procedures like MR spectroscopy, susceptibility weighted imaging, MR perfusion and Diffusion studies for evaluation of stroke, tumors, degenerative diseases, epilepsy.

The Zulekha group has consultant neuro-radiologist whose expertise lies in the full array of neurologic diseases, including brain tumors, neuro-infection, stroke and other vascular disorders, spine disease, neuro-degenerative diseases, and brain malformations.

MR spectroscopy is a unique technique which gives biochemical information about the diseased brain portion after routine imaging, thereby perform ingvirtual brain biopsy while avoiding stereotactic biopsy in certain situations. Zulekha hospital can perform this specialized study even if routine imaging has been done in any other centre for further characterization of the lesions.

DSpiral CT is done as routine neuro-imaging as well as CT angiogram of the brain and neck vessels.

Doppler Ultra Sound with trans -cranial Doppler facility and neuro-sonogram is also available for neonates and infants.