Radiology

A crucial part of providing quality health care is the ability to make highly accurate diagnoses. Our commitment to cutting-edge technology is evident throughout the Radiology department.

Diagnostic Radiology

Diagnostic Radiology is staffed around the clock with technologists who are registered by the American  Registry of Radiologic Technology. Quality images and prompt service are important to our technologists. Your physician can expect a fast turn around on reports, and you can expect a quality examination and friendly service.

MRI

In 1990, VVRH was one of the first hospitals in the state to have a permanent, fixed-unit magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). In 1999, the unit was moved to a new, modern facility and a 1.5 Tesla magnet was added to replace the hospital's .5 Tesla equipment. Patients benefit from improved image quality and scan time. Head scans that used to take 50 minutes to complete now take around 35 minutes. More images and information are obtained in a lesser amount of time, which also greatly benefits patients who are in pain or claustrophobic.

OPEN MRI

In 2003, the Radiology department introduced its new GE Signa® Ovation™, an Open MRI system with a full 4-1/2 feet of breathing space and 16 inches of headroom. The open environment helps reduce patient anxiety and is especially beneficial for imaging pediatric, claustrophobic and larger-size patients. The Ovation produces high quality results and is used for a wide range of routine and specialized MRI studies of the central nervous system, body, joints, extremities, and cardiovascular anatomy. The Open MRI is quieter than traditional MRI systems and the patient will be able to communicate with the technologist over a built-in intercom. A constant airflow, coupled with soothing light and music also helps patients relax during the exam. 

CT Scanner

In 1982, Valley View became the first rural Oklahoma hospital with a full-body CT unit. In 1999, we made headlines again by installing the new GE LightSpeed CT® scan, at that time one of only 216 worldwide, and the first, again, in Oklahoma. This scanner can capture multiple "slice" images of a patient's anatomy six times faster than traditional CT scanners, making it possible to complete a scan of the entire body in just 30 seconds.

This machine also gives Radiology the ability to perform non-invasive (CT) angio-procedures of carotid arteries, pulmonary arteries and other vascular studies in a very short period of time. 

Mammography

A mammogram screening is the best-known method for detecting breast cancer in its early stages. The American College of Radiology recommends that all women age 40 and over receive an annual mammogram. At Valley View, we have made great strides to protect your privacy and ensure your comfort, while offering the latest in mammography technology. The Valley View Breast Imaging Center features digital mammograms, which take less time to generate images, produce more accurate images, and offer easy image sharing for physicians. Our facility is accredited by the American College of Radiology and is one of the few FDA-approved units in the state.

Bone Mineral Density Test

Most people with fragile bones or osteoporosis are unaware of their condition until it's too late and they've already fractured a bone. The bone mineral density test, considered the single most reliable tool for assessing bone strength, is available at Valley View. Bone density measurements are taken from various parts of the body. Based on these measurements, your physician can prescribe the appropriate preventive treatment option.

Nuclear Medicine

Nuclear medicine is used to study the function, rather than the structure of various bodily organs. It is also used to help diagnose disease and stages of disease through bone and organ scans and axial imaging. Nuclear Medicine is a valuable tool in making cardiac assessments of patients with possible or known coronary artery disease. It is also used to determine the extent of injury to the heart in patients who have experienced previous heart attacks. 

The Nuclear Medicine department includes a machine with a Variable Angle Dual Head Camera and a second unit with a Single Head Camera. Now, more than one patient can be served at a time, which has reduced waiting times for exams. 

Ultrasound

Ultrasound is a quick, non-invasive approach to medicine. Ultrasound pictures, which are produced by sound waves, are used for imaging small organs and in vascular, fetal development, breast imaging, and general abdominal studies. The new HDI-5000 ultrasound technology provides 3-D imaging, top quality resolution and spectacular color graphics. The result is finer, more detailed images for better, faster diagnoses. For more information about the different uses of ultrasound tests, click here for the medical test library.

For more information about these services, please e-mail valleyview@vvrh.com.