Health Services

Radiology

The Department of Radiology provides diagnostic imaging ranging from musculoskeletal radiology to nuclear medicine for nearly 100,000 TRICARE beneficiaries. Beneficiaries are referred to radiology by their primary care manager.  

Radiology Services include diagnostic radiology, mammography, ultrasound, computerized tomography (CT), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), and Nuclear Medicine. The department uses the Digital Imaging Network Picture Archiving Communication System (DIN-PAC) to transmit electronic images eliminating the need to manually file, retrieve, or transport radiology film jackets. 

Patients may request digital copies of their radiology images through CRDAMC's Patient Administration Division (PAD), Medical Records Release of Information Office. PAD is located in the Shoemaker Center, Bldg. 36000 Darnall Loop. Patients requesting medical records will need to complete  DD Form 2870 Authorization for Disclosure of Medical or Dental Information.

For more information or questions regarding radiology services, please contact us.
 

Welcome to Radiology

Our aim is provide safe, quality radiologic services to all beneficiaries.  Select a tab to learn more about  radiology service specialties.

Diagnostic Radiology includes

Simple  x-rays  and fluoroscopic exams used to view and assess the human body in the diagnosis and treatment of disease.

Diagnostic studies may include, but are not limited to:
  • Chest x-ray
  • Hands x-ray
  • Feet x-ray
Diagnostic x-rays are done on a 24-hour walk-in basis.  

Fluoroscopic studies may include, but are not limited to:
  • Upper gastrointestinal (UGI) or Barium swallow
  • Barium enema
  • Small bowel follow thru (SBFT)
  • Intravenous Pyleogram (IVP)
Fluoroscopic Procedures
Monday-Friday
7 a.m. to 4 p.m.
 

Mammography

Mammography is a simple radiographic examination of the breast. It is the most reliable method for early detection of breast cancer. The examination uses X-rays to produce a picture of the breast anatomy in a two-view projection. The examination requires gentle compression of the breast to obtain optimal images.

A baseline (first) mammogram should be obtained between the ages of 35 – 40 if there is no immediate family history (mother, sister, daughter) of breast cancer. The American Cancer Society (ACS) recommends a yearly mammogram starting at the age of 40.

Referrals are required for mammography services.   Please request a referral from your Primary Care Manager (PCM). 

Beneficiaries with referrals from a physician outside of the CRDAMC health system, should contact the Mammography department for assistance with scheduling.  

For more information  or questions regarding mammography, please call 254-553-0174 or 254-553-3767.
 

Ultrasound/Sonography

Ultrasound/Sonography is one imaging modality in the Radiology field. Unlike Diagnostic Radiology, Ultrasound does not use radiation to create images. Ultrasound is a completely different way of viewing structures within the body. Very high frequency sound is used to create the images. Much like radar, or sonar (from which it is derived), sound waves are sent into the body and reflections are then measured, localized and converted into images. Unlike x-rays however, some things, like air and bones, prevent sound wave transmission. Sound waves like fluid best for traveling and it is for that reason that pelvic exams require a full bladder.

Ultrasound studies may include, but are not limited to:
  • Bladder and Kidney Exams
  • Abdominal and Gall Bladder
  • Thyroid Ultrasound
  • Testicular Ultrasound
  • Pelvic/OB Ultrasound
For more information or questions regarding ultrasounds, please call 254-553-1260 or 254-553-4382.

Computerized Tomography (CT)

A CAT Scan is a sophisticated method of x-raying the body in three dimensions. A computer with a rotating x-ray tube turns rapidly to create images of body parts from all angles. The computer takes the data and puts it together to create thin slices of the scanned anatomy. Patients are scanned while lying on a long bed called the "couch". The couch slides through a large metal archway called the "Gantry". It is in the Gantry where the scan takes place. The scan consists of images through very thin sections of the body, somewhat like a loaf of bread. 

For more information or questions regarding CT scans, please call 254-553-1260 or 254-553-4382.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a method of looking inside the body. Instead of x-rays, the MRI scanner uses magnetism and radio waves to produce remarkably clear pictures of your head, spine, or other parts of your body. An MRI scanner consists of a strong magnet with a radio transmitter and receiver. These instruments gather the information out of your body. MRI produces soft-tissue images and is used to distinguish normal, healthy soft tissue from pathology tissue. Depending on what information your doctor needs, the MRI scan may require the use of a contrast-agent given intravenously to assist in visualization of certain structures in your body.

There is very little preparation for an MRI procedure. You can go about your daily routine and take any medication you usually take, unless you are instructed otherwise. Please arrive at least 15 to 20 minutes before the scheduled exam time. You may be required to fill out additional paperwork. If the clothes you are wearing have metal fasteners or metallic design, you will be asked to change into hospital attire. You will be supplied a locker to secure your belongings and valuables.

For more information or questions regarding MRIs, please contact 254-553-4378.

Nuclear Medicine

Nuclear Medicine is the use of safe techniques to image the body and treat diseases. The imaging technique is unique, because it provides the physician with information about both structure and function.

Nuclear Medicine studies performed may include, but are not limited to:
  • bone scan
  • brain scan
  • myocardial perfusion scan
  • nuclear cystogram
  • esophageal reflux
  • gastric emptying study
  • gallium scan
  • thyroid scan
For more information or questions about Nuclear Medicine, please call 254-553-0451.

Contact Us

Hours

Monday-Friday
7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Phone

254-286-7178

Location

Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center
590 Medical Center Road
Building 36065
1st Floor, Bluffs Clinic
Fort Cavazos, Texas 76548