CT (Computed Tomography) Scanning
CT Scanning uses a specialized X-ray to produce detailed pictures of the body. Physicians schedule CT scans to better understand the effects of trauma and disease.

Ultrasound
Ultrasound uses high frequency sound waves applied with a small probe. When the sound waves reflect off tissues in the body, they generate a signal that is transmitted back to the ultrasound machine which generates an image. Ultrasound is used in a wide variety of injuries and illnesses that may apply to virtually any area of the body.

MRI (magnetic resonance imaging)
Magnetic resonance imaging uses radio wave energy in a magnetic field. The signal generated by the radio waves produce very detailed images of the human body. The advantage of MRI is its precise image detail that enables physicians to locate extremely small defects or disease processes. MRI is considered a very common procedure for virtually every area of medicine.

Nuclear Medicine
Nuclear medicine scanners produce images by detecting a radioactive tracer in the patient. The process uses radioactive pharmaceuticals which are injected into the vein. After injection, the isotope circulates through the body and concentrates in a specific area. There are different isotopes designed to concentrate in different areas of the body (i.e., lungs, heart, kidneys, skeleton and brain). Physicians may order one or more different types of nuclear medicine procedures.

Pet Imaging
PET scanning uses radioactive isotopes (radiopharmaceuticals) to create a powerful diagnostic tool for cancer, heart disease and a variety of neurological disorders like Alzheimer's disease. Similar to conventional nuclear medicine, the exam requires the injection of a radiopharmaceutical, which circulates throughout the body and localizes in cancer sites or other disease processes. The primary radiopharmaceutical, or tracer, used in PET is a radioactive sugar called FDG. Cancer cells use this sugar at an aggressive rate. PET uses a scanner to detect radioactivity and generate a whole body image demonstrating cancer sites, heart disease or neurological disorders.

Digital Imaging Network
Carolinas HealthCare System has developed the most extensive digital communication system in the region for imaging procedures. Carolinas Medical Center is an integral part of this system, allowing physicians and technicians to access patient records for quicker, more accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Interventional Radiology Services
Interventional radiology is a rapidly growing area that provides minimally invasive, targeted treatments using imaging guidance. Interventional radiology services are preferred over some surgical procedures because they involve smaller incisions, less risk, less pain and shorter recovery times for patients.