Imaging services

Diagnostic medical imaging in Idaho Falls

At Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center (EIRMC), our imaging and radiology services are incredibly comprehensive.

To schedule an imaging procedure, please call (208) 227-2612.

Advanced radiology services

The majority of our imaging services are obtained and managed by a fully digital environment. This advanced technology allows healthcare providers to access digital images and test results from anywhere there is internet access — usually within minutes of a diagnostic procedure. Our radiology services include:

Interventional radiology

With minimally invasive interventional radiology procedures, we can treat cerebrovascular accidents (strokes), tumors and narrowed blood vessels. During these procedures, small catheters are passed into the arteries, resulting in a faster recovery time and improved quality of life for the patient.

Computerized tomography (CT) scan

The CT scan combines thin cross-sections of digital images in multiple plans to provide detailed diagnostic information in all body areas. Biopsies and other treatments can be performed using CT scans. We offer 64-slice CT scans with cardiac capability, as well as CT scans with fluoroscopy.

Endoscopy

The term endoscope refers to a medical instrument consisting of a long flexible tube housing a tiny camera that doctors guide to various organs and locations in the body. The real-time images are used to help doctors conduct screenings and visual inspections of internal tissues and organs.

At EIRMC, we offer endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatogram capabilities. This means our physicians can insert tiny instruments through the endoscope to obtain tissue samples or treat problems, such as removing gallstones and polyps or opening bile ducts.

We do this using high-level endoscopy technology, only offered at a select few hospitals in Idaho.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

MRIs acquire images of the body using powerful magnets and radiofrequency waves. An MRI can reveal medical conditions and better details of soft-tissue anatomy than an X-ray, ultrasound or CT scan.

Mammography

A mammogram screening is a process of examining the breast for diagnosis and screening using low-energy X-rays. At EIRMC, patients needing breast health services have access to 3D mammography, which allows the breast tissue to be examined layer by layer. This means, rather than viewing the breast tissue in a flat image, as with conventional 2D mammography, fine details are more visible and no longer hidden by the surrounding tissue.

Nuclear medicine

Nuclear medicine is a specialized area of imaging using tiny amounts of radioactive material to review organ function and structure. It uses a powerful camera to detect and characterize diseases quickly. As opposed to simply anatomical detail, it offers more information on physiological or actual functions within the body. We perform both diagnostic and therapeutic nuclear medicine procedures.

Ultrasound

Commonly called sonography or ultrasonography, ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to display moving 3D images of the inside of the body on a monitor. No radiation is involved, which allows for diagnostic and therapeutic options, as well as high-risk pregnancy ultrasonography.

X-ray

A common diagnostic tool used in healthcare, X-rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation, just like visible light. Individual particles (photons) pass through the body and are detected by a highly sensitive imaging plate transmitted into a sharp, digital image.

Additional testing options

We also offer other diagnostic imaging services for patients with specific needs, including:

• Stereotactic breast biopsy — A nonsurgical method of assessing breast abnormalities using X-rays to guide the instruments to the growth site
• Bone densitometry — This procedure uses a small dose of radiation to create pictures of internal body structures
• Fluoroscopy — A type of imaging showing a continuous X-ray image on a monitor

We perform about 350 inpatient, outpatient and emergency tests each weekday. As a regional leader in imaging and interventional technology, patients have access to:

• 3D and computerized tomography (CT) combined-modality imaging — Gives detailed images and provides soft-tissue visualization for clearer identification of suspected lesions. Essentially, 3D images normally acquired with a CT are fused into an environment with live-guided technology.
• Biplane angiography system — This allows for simultaneous digital imaging, showing spatial relations more accurately on images. This reduces procedure times and radiation exposure while using less contrast dye.
• Mobile X-ray system designed for 2D fluoroscopic and 3D imaging — This gives surgeons CT-like images to view in the operating room, allowing crisp, real-time, multi-plane images. It also provides a 360-degree view of screw placements, allowing the doctor to make adjustments before completing the surgery — reducing the need for costly and difficult revisions.