Radiology Tests

A bone survey, also known as a skeletal survey, is a series of X-rays that checks your body's bones.

DEXA scan, also called dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry, or a bone mineral density scan, is a radiology test that uses X-rays to measure the density (or strength) of the bones.

This article provides information about what a CT scan is, why they are used, how you prepare, how it is performed, and how you can obtain your results. It will also discuss why contrast is used for some CT scans.

This article has information about an ultrasound imaging test, what it is used for, how to prepare, what to expect, and how results will be given to you and your care team.

An echocardiogram, also called an “echo,” uses high-frequency sound waves (ultrasound) to take moving pictures of your heart.

A lower GI series is a test that uses X-rays to help diagnose problems in the large intestine, which includes the colon and rectum. A lower GI series is sometimes called a barium enema because the large intestine is filled with barium liquid.

A mammogram is an imaging test that takes x-rays of the breasts to screen for breast cancer.

This article describes contrast-enhanced mammogram (CEM), a test for breast cancer that combines traditional mammogram with contrast dye given by IV.

Information about MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), what it is used for, how to prepare for it, how the test is performed, and how results are reported. This article also discusses how to manage MRI scans if you are anxious or claustrophobic.

An upper GI series, also called a barium swallow, uses x-rays to help diagnose problems of the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract.

A virtual colonoscopy is a test in which a CT scan is used to take pictures of your colon and rectum.

Digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT), or 3D mammography, uses X-rays to make a three-dimensional (3D) picture of the breast. This method lessens the need for more imaging, repeat testing, and biopsies. It is also better able to detect cancers than a traditional 2D mammogram.

This article goes over what contrast is, how it is given, how to prepare, and what to expect during and after contrast.