Imaging & Radiology

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses magnetic fields and radio waves to produce images that help medical providers identify abnormalities, including recent strokes, brain tumors, joint damage, infection, tumors, and nervous system disorders, without using radiation.

Southwestern Medical Center’s department of radiology utilizes high-quality 1.5 Tesla 8-channel MRI technology and requires patients to fill out and provide a screening form prior to any MRI procedures.

The Imaging Center at Southwestern Medical Center hosts the only open unit MRI machine in Southwest Oklahoma. This allows patients to feel more comfortable and reduces claustrophobic anxieties. The Imaging Center is located off of 52nd St. & Gore Blvd. For scheduling or other inquiries, please call 580.353.7226.

Dexa stands for Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry. It measures bone mineral density by using a very small dose of ionizing radiation to produce pictures of the inside of the body. These pictures (usually of the lower spine and hips) are used to measure bone loss.

What to Expect

A physician's order is required to have a DEXA scan. It is a quick and simple way to diagnose osteopenia, osteoporosis, or risk for determining a risk for developing fractures. DEXA images are analyzed by a board-certified radiologist who will send a report to your primary care doctor or ordering physician.

Preparing for a DEXA Scan

• It is important to tell your doctor and the technologist if there is a chance you:
  • are pregnant
  • have recently had a barium exam
  • received an injection of contrast material for a CT
  • received a radioisotope for a nuclear medicine scan
• Do not take calcium supplements for at least 24 hours before your exam
• Wear loose and comfortable clothing without metal zippers, buttons, or snaps

The Southwestern Medical Center Imaging Department conducts CT scans where the focus is on delivering low doses of radiation while maintaining high-quality images. The CT scanner features CT fluoroscopy, which is used to provide guidance during interventional procedures.

SWMC conducts a variety of necessary diagnostic CT scans, such as chest, abdomen, pelvis, head, and brain. Since it is important to minimize radiation exposure, CT scans are limited to necessary, diagnostic scans that will be beneficial to the patient's outcome and recovery. This is especially important for our pediatric patient population.

CT scans are beneficial in identifying tumors, hemorrhaging, and recent strokes as well as contrasting between gas, fluid, tissue, blood, and bone. Patients can expect zero pain during computerized tomography image testing and may expect the use of contrast, intravenously or by swallowing, to assist imaging views.

A physician's order is required for this exam. The patient must provide contact information of the ordering provider in order to share test results with the ordering physician.

For more information, call 580.531.4793.