Services provided by AMGH?s Medical Imaging include:

• General Radiology
• CT Exams
• Ultrasound
• Mammography

The AMGH Diagnostic Imaging Department is part of the Southwestern Ontario Digital Imaging Network. This new filmless method of taking x-rays digitally is called a PACS - Picture Archival & Communication System. This means that our x-ray images can be viewed on computer workstation in hospitals, clinics and doctors' offices all across Southwestern Ontario. This system allows healthcare professionals the ability to see a patient's images anywhere and at anytime, a definite advantage to both the patients and their doctors, etc. In order to safeguard the privacy of the patient, computer workstations connected to the PACS are protected by special security, usernames and passwords. All PACS users and partner hospital abide by a strict code of confidentiality.

CT scans are more detailed than general x-rays, using computers to generate three-dimensional images from flat, two-dimensional x-ray pictures.

What to Expect When You Have a CT Scan

Before the Test
You should wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing and may be given a gown to wear during the procedure.

• You may be asked to remove your jewelry, hearing aids and eyeglasses because objects with metal may affect the quality of the CT image.
• If a contrast substance or dye will be used during your exam, you may be asked not to eat or drink anything for several hours before your test.
• You will be asked about medications, allergies, recent illnesses and your medical history to make sure you don't have a condition that increases the risk of an unusual or adverse reaction to the test or dye.

The Exam
CT exams are fast, easy and painless. The CT scanner is a large machine with a short tunnel-like hole in the middle where a narrow examination table slides in and out. Scanners and detectors form a ring that rotates around you when you are inside the tunnel. The CT technologist will operate the scanner and monitor your examination from a separate windowed room, but you will always be in two-way communication with the technologist during the entire test.

• Your primary care or referring physician will receive a copy of the report and will discuss the results with you.

In rare instances, an allergic reaction can be serious and potentially life-threatening including swelling in your throat or other areas of your body. If you experience hives, itchiness or swelling in your throat during or after your CT exam, immediately tell your technologist or doctor.

If you've had a reaction to a contrast medium in the past, and you need a diagnostic test that may require a contrast medium again, talk to your doctor. Be sure to let your doctor know if you have kidney problems. Contrast material that's injected into a vein is removed from your body by your kidneys and could potentially cause further damage to your kidneys in some circumstances.

Mammography

The hospital has established a breast-screening centre as part of the Ontario Breast Screening Program. This program allows women aged 50 to 70 with no history of breast disease to make self-referrals for routine mammograms.

Telephone
(519) 524-8323 ext. 5255

Hours
Outpatient Hours: Monday to Friday, 0800 to 1600.  An appointment is necessary.

Available 24 hours a day for emergency and inpatient services.

Location
Basement of the AMGH
(please enter through emergency entrance)

Booking an Appointment
Please call (519) 524-8323 ext. 5255 between 0800-1600.
A requisition is required from a Health Care provider.
A valid Health Card is required for all services, otherwise a fee will be charged.

Preparation

Medical Imaging Exam Prep Sheet