Computed Tomography (CT)

A CT scan uses a special type of x-ray device and a sophisticated computer system to generate detailed images of the body. CT scan technology provides images of much greater detail than x-rays. A CT scan also requires significantly more radiation than a regular x-ray. The CT exam is painless and is typically completed in less than 10 minutes. Unlike a MRI, a CT scan passes the patient through a slim ring to quickly obtain the images. A radiologist may manipulate the dataset using computer reconstruction to view the body at different angles and best display a particular organ or structure of interest.

At NEBH, CT scans can be tailored to a specific clinical question and to each individual patient. We employ high-resolution techniques that give detailed images of bones, joints, and soft tissues. When scanning near hardware, metal artifact reduction techniques are used to render the best possible images.

Ultrasound (US)

Ultrasound or sonography uses a small probe or “transducer” to send high-frequency sound waves into the body and catch the reflected sound waves. These reflected sound waves create images of body parts. This technology is similar to sonar technology. To enhance the signal strength, the technologist or physician will place special gel on the body prior to placing the probe on the skin. Ultrasound exams are safe, painless, and do not use ionizing radiation.

Dr. Joel Newman lectures nationally and has numerous publications on the subject of musculoskeletal ultrasound. His expertise is unique in the Boston area. Dr. Newman has special experience evaluating rotator cuff repairs and postoperative symptoms, particularly if the patient cannot have an MRI.

At the NEBH Department of Radiology, we perform a variety of ultrasound-guided procedures such as paralabral cyst aspiration and popliteal cyst aspiration.

Nuclear Medicine (NM)

Nuclear medicine is a unique branch of medical imaging that measures physiology by administering a radiopharmaceutical or radiotracer. A radiotracer uses radiation. Unlike an x-ray where radiation is passed from one side of the body to another, nuclear medicine inserts a tiny amount of radiation inside of the patient and uses a special camera to see where the radiation is deposited. The radiotracer may be injected by IV, swallowed, or inhaled as a gas. With the exception of intravenous injections, nuclear medicine procedures are painless. For most exams, any radiation is gone within a day.

NEBH is primarily an orthopedic hospital. As such, a bone scan is the primary nuclear medicine test performed in our department, often for a spine problem or symptoms related to a total joint replacement. Bone scans are complementary to other imaging tests and are interpreted alongside pertinent x-rays, CT scans, and MRI exams.

Bone Densitometry

Bone densitometry, also called dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA), is an enhanced form of x-ray technology used to measure bone loss. DXA is today’s established standard for measuring bone mineral density. DXA is most often performed on the lower spine and hips. Bone densitometry is used to diagnose osteoporosis and follow response to osteoporosis treatment.

X-Ray

We perform a large volume of x-rays for both outpatients and inpatients. Our technologists are efficient and practiced at exams of all body parts, making your experience pleasant and fast.