Imaging Services

Imaging procedures can be stressful sometimes. Here at Southeast Imaging, our patient-centered approach aims to give you the best experience possible. And it's all done by board certified professionals who are highly trained in performing diagnostic tests—and interpreting your results.

Some radiology tests use radiation to create images. Others don't.

Reviewed 9/30/2022

4 facts and myths about imaging and radiation

Imaging tests are used to look inside the body. They help doctors diagnose conditions and determine the best treatments. There are various types of imaging tests, many of which use radiation. The type of imaging recommended for you will depend on the goal of the test, your condition and the part of your body being examined.

To help you understand more about imaging and radiation, here are some common myths and facts.

Myth or fact: You should avoid all radiation.

MYTH. We’re exposed to radiation every day. We get it from the air, outer space, the ground and even the food we eat. Scientists measure radiation in millisieverts (mSv). It’s estimated that the average person in the U.S. receives a dose of about 3 mSv per year just through natural means.

For comparison, the radiation you receive from an x-ray of your ankle is 0.001 mSv. That’s equal to 3 hours of natural radiation. A CT scan of your lungs imparts 1.5 mSv, or the equivalent of six months of natural radiation. Even that amount is considered a very low health risk.

If you need imaging that uses radiation, the radiologist will ensure you’re exposed to the lowest amount possible for an effective test.

Myth or fact: All imaging tests use some form of radiation.

MYTH. Plain x-rays, CT scans and nuclear scans use radiation. But ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans don’t.

An ultrasound uses sound waves to create an image. MRIs use a large magnet and radio waves.

Myth or fact: Imaging tests that use radiation are considered safe.

FACT. Many activities we think of as safe—like taking a walk—carry some degree of risk. Similarly, imaging tests that use radiation are considered safe. Radiologists use the lowest radiation possible to get effective images. It would take ultra-high levels of radiation—far more than those used in diagnostic imaging—to potentially cause cancer later in life.

Still, you want to minimize your exposure to radiation when possible. If you’re worried that your imaging test will expose you to unnecessary radiation, discuss your concerns with your doctor or the radiologist. Maybe you’ve had a similar test done recently that could provide the information they need. Or you may have the option of a different test that wouldn’t expose you to radiation.

Myth or fact: Radiation tests can make you infertile.

MYTH. Very high radiation doses can harm eggs or sperm. But the amount of radiation used in diagnostic radiology is very low. No studies have shown that low-level radiation exposure to eggs or sperm causes birth defects or miscarriage. Even cancer patients whose ovaries received fairly high levels of radiation have shown no negative lasting effects.

You can lower your risk from an imaging test by letting your doctor know if you are—or think you could be—pregnant before having the procedure. Your doctor might want to postpone or modify it to lower the amount of radiation you’ll receive.

Learn more about specific imaging tests and how they might be used.

Sources: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; The Joint Commission; Radiological Society of North America

Chances are you'll notice the difference right away. We know that our patients are people—not just scans or appointment slots. We'll take the time to get to know you when you come in for your test. And we'll walk you through your procedure so you know exactly what to expect.

We understand that you're busy too. That's why we offer evening and weekend appointments, along with coordination of care to organize your visits. If you need multiple tests, we'll work with you to schedule everything for the same day whenever possible.

Expert-Led Imaging

Not every imaging center is staffed with accredited technicians. Our centers are—and that matters. The professionals who conduct our MRIs, CT scans, ultrasounds, x-rays and more have undergone extensive training and are registered in their fields.

That means you can count on getting the most accurate images and results.

Our board certified techs know how to perform your scan right the first time, while limiting your exposure to radiation as much as possible. And they're trained to recognize abnormalities and signs of disease that nonregistered staffers at other imaging centers might miss.

Advanced Imaging and Radiology Services

Southeast Imaging gives you access to the same diagnostic tests and technology you'd find at major medical centers, but with a caring approach that puts you first.

That includes interventional radiology—imaging tests used to guide minimally invasive surgical procedures like angioplasty and stenting, embolization, and biopsies. We also offer nuclear medicine procedures, which provide more accurate diagnoses for cardiac conditions like heart disease.

We have advanced equipment too. Our three-dimensional CT scanners give faster, more accurate results compared to traditional CT machines. They're safer too, helping you avoid unnecessary radiation. And our open-bore MRI systems are more comfortable than conventional closed scanners, especially for people who are claustrophobic.

Of course, we offer all the standard medical imaging tests you'd expect—from routine screenings to diagnostic procedures. You can come to us for:

Low-dose CT scans
PET scans
MRI and MRI contrast
Digital mammography, including 3-D mammograms, at our dedicated breast center
Bone density screenings
X-rays
Ultrasound tests

Imaging Services