On-Site Imaging
CIMT
Cardiovascular Screening
CIMT scan is a painless, ultrasound test of your carotid arteries.
No needles. No radiation.
It provides valuable information about your risk of having a heart attract or stroke.
It takes about 10 minutes.
No need to undress.
What is a CIMT Cardiovascular Screening?
A Carotid Intima-Media Thickness (CIMT) screening is a safe, non-invasive ultrasound test that measures the thickness of the inner two layers of your carotid arteries (the large blood vessels in your neck). It is used to detect early signs of plaque buildup and assess your risk of heart attack or stroke long before any symptoms appear.
Who should consider getting a CIMT screening?
This test is highly recommended for men and women over the age of 40, especially those with known risk factors for cardiovascular disease. You should consider a CIMT screening if you have high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol levels, diabetes, a history of smoking, or a family history of heart disease or stroke.
How should I prepare for my appointment?
Preparation is very simple. There is no need to fast or stop taking your regular medications. We just ask that you wear a comfortable shirt with a loose or open collar (avoid turtlenecks) so the ultrasound technician can easily access your neck area.
Is the test painful or does it involve radiation?
Not at all. The CIMT screening is completely painless, non-invasive, and involves zero radiation. A trained sonographer will simply apply a warm, water-based gel to your neck and glide a small ultrasound wand (transducer) over the skin to capture the images.
How long does the procedure take, and when will I get my results?
The actual ultrasound scan typically takes only 15 to 20 minutes. A physician will review your images, and a detailed report will usually be available within a few business days. Your doctor will then discuss the findings with you to determine if any preventative measures or lifestyle changes are needed.
CAROTID DOPPLER
Imaging
The carotid doppler ultrasound is a non-invasive test that uses sound waves to measure the flow of blood through the large carotid arteries that supply blood to the brain.
These arteries can become narrowed due to arteriosclerosis or other causes. The carotid doppler test can help determine stroke risk and the need for preventive measures.
Testing takes approximately 30-45 minutes and is performed in the office.
What is a Carotid Doppler ultrasound?
A Carotid Doppler is a safe, non-invasive imaging test that uses high-frequency sound waves to evaluate blood flow through the carotid arteries in your neck. This exam helps doctors detect narrowing or blockages caused by plaque buildup, which can significantly increase your risk of a stroke.
How does a Carotid Doppler differ from a CIMT screening?
While both tests use ultrasound technology on your neck, they look for different things. A CIMT screening measures the thickness of your artery walls to detect early, microscopic signs of cardiovascular disease. A Carotid Doppler specifically evaluates the speed and volume of blood flow to identify existing, significant blockages or narrowing in the arteries.
How do I need to prepare for my Carotid Doppler exam?
No special preparation is required. You can eat, drink, and take your regular medications as usual before your appointment. We simply ask that you wear a comfortable shirt with a loose neck or a V-neck and leave necklaces or long earrings at home so the technologist has easy access to your neck.
What happens during the procedure, and is it painful?
The test is completely painless and usually takes about 30 minutes. You will lie comfortably on an exam table while a sonographer applies a warm, water-based gel to your neck. As they gently glide a small handheld device (transducer) over the area, you may hear a rhythmic “whooshing” sound—this is just the machine amplifying the sound of your blood circulating.
When will I receive my results?
You can return to your normal daily activities immediately after the test. A specialized physician will review your ultrasound images and send a detailed report to your referring doctor, usually within 24 to 48 hours. Your doctor will then follow up with you to discuss the results and any recommended next steps.
ECHO CARDIOGRAM
Imaging
An echocardiogram (often called “echo”) is a graphic outline of the heart’s movement.
During this test, high-frequency sound waves, called ultrasound, provide pictures of the heart’s valves and chambers. This allows the technician, called a sonographer, to evaluate the pumping action of the heart.
Testing takes approximately 30-40 minutes and is performed in the office.
What is an Echocardiogram?
An echocardiogram, often just called an “echo,” is a safe, non-invasive ultrasound of your heart. It uses high-frequency sound waves to create real-time, moving pictures of your heart, allowing your doctor to evaluate its size, shape, and how well the chambers and valves are pumping blood.
Why did my doctor order an Echocardiogram?
Your physician may recommend an echo if you are experiencing symptoms such as unexplained chest pain, shortness of breath, or an irregular heartbeat. It is also the primary test used to investigate heart murmurs, monitor existing heart conditions, check for fluid around the heart, or evaluate how well a previous medical or surgical treatment is working.
How should I prepare for this exam?
For a standard transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE), there is no special preparation required. You can eat, drink, and take your regular medications exactly as you normally would. We recommend wearing a comfortable two-piece outfit, as you will be asked to undress from the waist up and wear a provided gown during the test.
What happens during the procedure, and is it safe?
The test is completely painless, involves absolutely no radiation, and carries no side effects. You will lie down on an exam table, and a sonographer will place small sticky patches (electrodes) on your chest to monitor your heart’s electrical activity. They will then apply a warm, water-based gel and gently press a handheld wand (transducer) against your chest to capture the images. The entire process takes about 45 to 60 minutes.
How and when will I receive my results?
Once the exam is complete, you can return to your normal activities immediately. A board-certified cardiologist will carefully review your ultrasound images. A detailed final report is typically sent to your referring physician within 24 to 48 hours. Your doctor will then contact you to discuss the findings and any necessary follow-up care.
X-RAY
Imaging
Digital x-rays improve our diagnostic ability by allowing us to zoom in and out on images, change the brightness and contrast, or even add color for detailed analysis for incredibly clear imaging.
Our x-ray system is networked directly with a radiologist that can immediately view the images we have obtained for fast accurate results direct to our patient records.
What is an X-ray and what does it show?
An X-ray is a quick, painless, and non-invasive imaging test that uses a very small amount of electromagnetic radiation to create pictures of the inside of your body. It is most commonly used to view bones and joints, but it is also an excellent tool for examining certain soft tissues and organs, such as your lungs or digestive tract.
Why did my doctor order an X-ray?
X-rays are a frontline diagnostic tool. Your physician may order one to investigate pain, check for bone fractures, evaluate joint injuries, or look for signs of arthritis and osteoporosis. Chest X-rays are also frequently used to diagnose lung conditions like pneumonia, while abdominal X-rays can help identify digestive issues or swallowed objects.
How should I prepare for my X-ray appointment?
Standard X-rays require little to no special preparation. We recommend wearing loose, comfortable clothing without metal zippers, snaps, or buttons. You will be asked to remove jewelry, eyeglasses, watches, or any other metal objects that could interfere with the image. Depending on the area being examined, you may be asked to change into a provided medical gown.
Is the radiation exposure from an X-ray safe?
Yes. The amount of radiation you are exposed to during a standard X-ray is extremely small—often equivalent to the natural environmental radiation you experience over just a few days. The diagnostic benefits far outweigh the minimal risks. However, if you are pregnant or suspect you might be, it is critical to inform your doctor and the technologist beforehand so proper safety precautions can be taken.
How long does the procedure take, and when will I get my results?
The entire process is very fast, typically taking only 10 to 15 minutes, with the actual X-ray exposure lasting just a fraction of a second. You will be asked to hold still or hold your breath momentarily to ensure a clear image. A board-certified radiologist will analyze your images and send a detailed report to your referring physician, usually within 24 to 48 hours.
