Diagnostic Imaging operates state-of-the-art equipment in five areas: Computerized Tomography (CT), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Ultrasound, Nuclear Medicine and Radiology (X-ray). As is the case with most hospitals, the majority of our hi-tech equipment budget is used in this department. Joel Jaussaud is the department's Director, and supervises over 20 technicians and other staff at the hospital in San Andreas and Diagnostic Centers in Angels Camp and Arnold. You can reach the department at (209) 754-2594.
CT Scans
Computerized Tomography (CT) at Mark Twain St. Joseph's Hospital uses General Electrics latest LightSpeed(TM) technology with its Vascular Analysis Package. In the past few years computer hardware and software has changed dramatically, offering studies and image clarity that were only dreams when our new hospital was built less than a decade ago. The benefits of this new technology are many and have a major impact on the community:
- Image Quality - The clarity of the images is much improved, resulting in better-defined treatment plans by the physicians.
- Expanded Studies - Virtual Organ studies are now available. Studies such as a Virtual Colonoscopy are capable of developing a clear three-dimensional color image of organs, reducing patient discomfort and apprehension and can result in lives saved through early diagnosis and intervention.
- Performance - With the decrease in recovery times, patients can more quickly return to work and lifestyles.
Ultrasound
Ultrasound is used for evaluating the abdomen, pelvis, breast blood vessels and fetal growth. It is also used for guiding biopsies and performing echo cardiography (studies of the heart) and segmental pressures (arterial studies of the extremities).
Nuclear Medicine
Nuclear Medicine performs a full array of studies. The most common procedure is the myocardial perfusion, which aids in the diagnosis of Coronary Artery Disease (CAD), or blockages in the arteries that supply blood to your heart muscle. Other frequent studies include lung scans for detection of blood clots; bone scans that can detect fractures, tumors, lesions, infections, etc.; gallbladder scans to detect obstructions or chronic infection; and renal scans that can detect urinary obstruction; or reasons for hypertension.
Mammography
This is one of the most Federally controlled modalities in Radiology. Both of the hospital's units (Mammography is also available at the Family Medical Center in Arnold) recently passed the rigid inspections required for use. All of the technologists require special certification. Breast biopsies as well as stereotactic biopsies are also performed at the hospital.
Radiology
Radiology covers fluoroscopy and general x-ray. The hospital uses Phillips and General Electric technology for our three hospital units. We also offer radiology at the Family Medical Centers in Arnold and the Creekside Imaging Center in Angels Camp. Radiology is very busy with scheduled outpatient visits and surgeries, plus the demanding requirements of the Emergency Department. One General Electric x-ray unit is dedicated to outpatient diagnostics.
