Imaging & Radiology Procedures

This page relates to inpatient procedures at Huntington Hospital.

For information about outpatient procedures at our imaging center, please visit our Imaging & Radiology page.

Imaging & Radiology Procedures

We provide high-quality diagnostic imaging, using highly advanced imaging technologies. Our team of board-certified radiologists and licensed technologists have expertise in numerous diagnostic procedures.

If you have any questions or need further information, please call (626) 397-5139.

Arthrocenthesis

An Arthrocenthesis is a fluoroscopic procedure in which synovial fluid that lubricate the joint is removed. (Shoulder, Wrist, Hips and Knees) Physicians perform the exam using a needle and a syringe. The fluid is removed and tested to diagnose the cause of a buildup of fluid. Causes include infection, arthritis, and joint injury. Physicians also perform this procedure to inject medication, such as an anesthetic or a steroid into the joint. Medications are injected to help relieve pain, swelling and/or inflammation.

Arthrogram

Arthrography is most often used to identify abnormalities within the shoulder, wrist, hip, knee and ankle. The procedure can also help diagnose persistent, unexplained joint pain or discomfort. It uses a special form of X-ray called fluoroscopy and a contrast material containing iodine. For more information on Arthrograms, please click here.

BE/ Lower GI

Lower GI tract radiography is also known as a lower gastrointestinal exam or — more commonly — as a barium enema (BE). This X-ray examination looks at the large intestine (colon), and can help detect ulcers, cancer, benign tumors such as polyps, and signs of other intestinal illnesses. If you are having a BE exam, your doctor will provide you with specific pre-examination guidelines related to your diet and other preparation required. Be sure to follow all guidelines precisely.
For more information on the Barium Enema procedure, please click here.

Cystogram

A cystogram is an x-ray examination of the urinary bladder, which is located in the lower pelvic area. A cystogram can show the bladder’s position and shape, and the exam often is used to diagnose a condition called reflux. Reflux occurs when urine in the bladder moves back up the ureters, the tubes that transport urine from the kidneys to the bladder. This condition can cause repeated urinary tract infections. A cystogram may be performed after a patient has experienced a pelvic injury to ensure that the bladder has not torn. Cystograms also are used to detect polyps or tumors in the bladder.

HSG

Hysterosalpingography (HSG) — also known as a uterosalpingography — involves examination of the uterus and fallopian tubes using a special form of X-ray called fluoroscopy with a contrast material. The procedure is best p erformed one week after menstruation but before ovulation to make certain you are not pregnant during the exam.
For more information on the HSG procedure, please click here.

Lumbar Puncture

A lumbar puncture is also known as a spinal tap. It involves withdrawing fluid via a needle inserted into your back and may be used to diagnose or treat problems in the spinal canal. To have a lumbar puncture, you must be able to lie face down, on your stomach. Before your procedure, please let us know if you weigh more than 400 pounds.
For more information on the Lumbar Puncture procedure, please click here.

Myelogram

A myelogram uses radiology — and an injected contrast medium — to diagnose abnormalities of the spinal cord, spinal canal, spinal nerve roots and/or blood vessels that supply the spinal cord. You may need to have various laboratory or other tests taken in advance of your myelogram. It is important that you understand and follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. In particular, please note that you may be asked to stop taking any blood-thinning medications several days in advance of your myelogram. To have this exam, you must also be able to lie face down, on your stomach. For more information on Myelograms, please click here.

Nephrostogram

The nephrostogram is a special x-ray done to determine whether the kidney drains adequately into the ureters and bladder. The radiologist will place a dye into your nephrostomy tube and then take X-rays in to help answer our questions. This shouldn’t be painful, but the kidney might ache a little. A dye is placed through the kidney tube directly into the kidney and then X-rays are taken while you are in various positions.

Upper GI/UGI (Including Barium Swallow & Esophagram)

An Upper GI — also known as a UGI or upper gastrointestinal tract radiography —involves a special form of X-ray called fluoroscopy and a contrast material called barium. In addition to drinking barium, some patients are given baking-soda crystals to further improve the images. An upper GI examination helps evaluate digestive function, detect ulcers and hiatal hernias, and diagnose other problems in the esophagus, stomach and duodenum. If you are having an upper GI exam, your doctor may provide you with specific pre-examination guidelines related to your diet and other preparation required. Be sure to follow all these guidelines precisely.
For more information on Upper Gastrointestinal procedures, please click here.

VCUG/ Voiding Cystourethrogram

A pediatric voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG) examines a child’s bladder and lower urinary tract using a special form of X-ray called fluoroscopy and a contrast material. The exam is used to detect abnormalities in the flow of urine through the urinary tract.
For more information on VCUG, please click here.