Diagnostic Medical Imaging in Bessemer, AL

At Medical West, we know that diagnosing your illness is an important part of your care plan. That is why we offer state-of-the-art imaging technology delivered by a highly skilled and friendly staff.

 
Medical West Imaging Services has two locations in Bessemer, Alabama for your convenience. The first, Medical West Hospital Imaging, is located on the first floor of the hospital. The second, Medical West Imaging Center, is located adjacent to the hospital on Memorial Drive. Each location has a variety of medical imaging technology to aid the diagnostic process.
 

Medical Imaging Services offered at Medical West Hospital

 

  • General Radiology

    General Radiology refers to diagnostic exams that use x-rays to produce images of the body. Most x-ray exams take only a few minutes and are painless.

  • CT Scan Examination

    Computed Tomography (CT or CAT scan) is a medical imaging technique that combines conventional x-ray imaging with computer technology to produce images of the body. To prepare for a CT scan, you may be asked to refrain from eating or drinking starting six hours before the procedure. If necessary, you may take medications with a small amount of water. CT scans generally take 30-45 minutes. The scan will take longer if multiple images are generated or a detailed study is needed.

  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging

    Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is an advanced imaging technique that uses a magnetic filed and radio waves to create images of the body. In most cases, there is no patient prep needed for an MRI. Should the exam require any prep, such as refraining from food or drink, the doctor will provide you with instructions. Prior to the imaging, you will be asked to remove any metal objects you may be wearing. It is recommended the patient wear clothing without metal zippers, snaps or buttons. Patient’s with metal inside their bodies must inform the MRI technologist.

  • Ultrasound

    Ultrasound uses sound waves to produce images. This technology is typically used for obstetrics and gynecology, cardiology, urology, and many other medical specialties. Various ultrasound procedures require different preps. Consult your physician or contact our scheduling department for details. Ultrasound exams take an average of 20-30 minutes depending on the area of the body which is being examined. This type of diagnostic imaging is painless with no side effects.

  • Mammography

    Mammography is a medical imaging technique specifically designed for breast tissue. On the day of your exam, do not use any lotions, creams, perfumes, powders or deodorant on or around the breast area as these can appear on the image as calcium spots. No other prep is required.

  • Nuclear Medicine

    Nuclear medicine uses the detection of energy emitted from a radioactive substance given to the patient, either intravenously or by mouth. It comprises diagnostic exams that result in images of body anatomy and function.

  • Vascular Lab

    Vascular studies use sound waves, rather than radiation, to produce images. This includes arterial and venous studies to evaluate blockages which may lead to stroke. These studies also assist in determining peripheral vascular disease and blockages in the extremities. The Medical West Vascular Lab is accredited by The Intersocietal Commission for the Accreditation of Vascular Laboratories (ICAVL). .

  • Cardiac Catheterization Lab (Cath Lab)

    Cardiac Catheterization is used for diagnostic matters of the heart. It may be utilized to obtain information about the heart and its blood vessels, provide treatment for certain types of heart conditions, or to determine the need for heart surgery. The Cath Lab at Medical West performs several kinds of diagnostic procedures to determine the condition of your cardiovascular system. Our procedures include: Diagnostic Cardiac Catheterizations (also called cardiac cath), pacemaker implants, TEE, cardioversion, and other interventional radiologic procedures. The Cardiac Cath will reveal where blockages in the coronary arteries are located using fluoroscopy (x-ray) and contrast (dye).

  • Sleep Center

    The Sleep Center is used to diagnose and treat sleep problems such as insomnia, sleep apnea and restless legs syndrome. The diagnostic process is easy, non-invasive, and in most cases is covered by insurance.

 

Lee Morrison, Director
Phone: (205) 481-7155
Location: First floor of hospital
E-mail: lmorrison@uabmw.org