Ascension Saint Agnes Imaging Center

At Seton Imaging, we provide a wide range of imaging tests. For questions or to schedule an appointment, call 410-368-8675.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a non-invasive test that helps your doctor diagnose conditions inside the body such as bleeding, inflammation, infection, tumors and tears. . MRI is used for imaging the brain, spine, nerves, arms and legs, organs in the abdomen, and breast. During your MRI, you may be asked to change into a gown, and lay on a table that slides in and out of a tube. You lay still during the procedure, which usually lasts about 15 minutes to an hour, depending on what part of your body is being examined. You may be given earplugs or headphones to help you relax. MRI does not use radiation or x-rays.

*We do not offer an open MRI.

Computed tomography (CT)

Computed tomography (CT) is a non-invasive imaging test that quickly generates detailed images using rotating x-rays. Our radiologists work closely with your doctor to create a personalized plan for your scan, which may include a dye that you drink or is inserted through an IV. This dye helps parts of your body show up better on the scan. CT is commonly used for imaging in the chest, abdomen, pelvis, and blood vessels.

Ultrasound

Ultrasound is an imaging test that uses high-frequency sound waves to generate images. The images are sent to radiologists who are able to analyze the soft tissues in your body. There is no need for intravenous dye, and ultrasound does not use ionizing radiation or x-rays.

Positron emission tomography (PET) and PET/CT

PET is a whole-body nuclear medicine test that can be combined with a CT scan to diagnose conditions such as cancer.. A small dose of radioactive material is inserted through an IV, which will show up as bright areas on the scan. Often, a PET/CT is ordered by an oncologist in order to accurately determine the progression or stage of cancer. PET/CT can also help your doctor determine how effective treatment is and help guide future treatments.

3D Mammography

3D mammography is commonly used to take images of the breast for women with dense tissue. The 3D mammogram obtains many more images of the breasts to allow for a more detailed assessment of breast tissue. It can lead to improved cancer detection for women with dense breasts, compared to traditional mammograms.

Digital mammography

Mammography uses low-dose X-rays to take images of breast tissue. This test is used to detect tumors and breast cancer, before you or your doctor can feel a mass. Gentle compression during the exam is used to image the breast in different views. If you feel a lump or pain in your breast beforehand, let our technologists know and a marker will be placed at the site to alert our radiologists.

DEXA

Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) is a medical test used to measure bone density, and diagnose osteopenia and osteoporosis. During the procedure, you lay on your back on an X-ray table while parts of your body are scanned.

Digital X-ray and Fluoroscopy

Digital x-ray uses electronic sensors to take images of the lungs, bones and other body parts. The images are quickly processed and interpreted by radiologists. Fluoroscopy is a medical imaging test performed with the radiologist in the room with the patient, while a low dose x-ray beam provides “video-like” images of the body. An oral or injected dye is given depending on what area of the body is examined, and may include the stomach, intestines, spine, or other part of the body.

VCUG

A voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG) is a fluoroscopic test of the bladder and ureters, often performed on children who have had one or more episodes of a urinary tract infection (UTI). A radiologist inserts a sterile catheter into the bladder and injects contrast dye into the bladder. During “video” fluoroscopy, the patient is turned to each side to check for reflux of the contrast into the ureters. After the bladder is full, the catheter is removed and images are obtained while the bladder empties.

Coronary artery calcium scan

A coronary artery calcium scan is a non-invasive procedure that can help diagnose coronary artery disease. It is typically ordered for patients who do not experience symptoms, and shows if you have hardened plaque build-up in the arteries of your heart. This test allows your doctor to determine your risk for future heart attacks.

Low-dose CT lung screening

A low-dose CT scan is a painless test used to detect the presence of lung nodules or other abnormalities. While some lung nodules may be non-cancerous, they can be indicators of lung disease or in some cases, lead to cancer. If a lung nodule is found, your doctor may ask for a biopsy. After a biopsy of the nodule is taken and tested, can it be used to diagnose cancer and lung disease, such as emphysema or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

The screening is designed for individuals who may be at high risk for developing cancer. This includes individuals who are:

• Aged 55-77
• Smoked a pack a day for 30 years or more or the equivalent
• A current smoker or former smoker who has quit within the past 15 years