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Educational Brochures Available in SpanishCT, MRI and PET scanning patient education brochures are available in Spanish. To receive a supply, please contact Christina Zielinski at [email protected].
Baylor Diagnostic Imaging Center at North Dallas
96.5
96.4
Baylor Diagnostic Imaging Center at Junius
94.6Baylor University
Medical Center at Dallas
3500 Gaston AvenueDallas, Texas 75246
Three Convenient LocationsBaylor Dallas Campus3500 Gaston AvenueRoberts Hospital, First FloorMedical Imaging DepartmentDallas, Texas 75246214.820.1700214.820.6088 Fax
Outpatient Hours of Operation:Monday–Friday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.Saturday–Sunday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Baylor Diagnostic Imaging Center at JuniusBaylor Medical Pavilion3900 Junius Street, Suite 100Dallas, Texas 75246214.820.6900214.820.6902 Fax
Hours of Operation:Monday–Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Baylor Diagnostic Imaging Center at North Dallas9101 North Central Expy., Suite 100Dallas, Texas 75231214.820.1606214.820.1610 Fax
Hours of Operation:Monday–Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Physicians are members of the medical staff at one of the Baylor Health Care System’s subsidiary, community or affiliated medical centers and are neither employees nor agents of those medical centers, Baylor University Medical Center, or Baylor Health Care System. Photographs may include models or actors and may not represent actual patients. © 2010 Baylor Health Care System BCIC_51_2010
Centers Offer Prompt Access and TurnaroundIn many cases, same-day or next-day appointments are available for all modalities at Baylor Diagnostic Imaging Center at North Dallas and Baylor Diagnostic Imaging Center at Junius.
All reports are faxed within 24 to 36 hours to the referring physician’s offi ce. Both outpatient imaging centers share the same picture archiving and communication system (PACS) as Baylor Dallas, as well as the same managed care contracts.
Both the Junius and North Dallas imaging centers have iSTAT® machines so that stat blood work for creatinine levels may be performed before giving a patient CT and/or MRI contrast.
The North Dallas imaging center is located about 10 minutes away from Baylor University MedicalCenter at Dallas, just seven miles north of the main Baylor Dallas campus (south of I-635) on the north-west corner of Park Lane and Central Expressway. Parking is free.
PET/CT Referral Made EasyA PET/CT Physician Order Form, which includes patient education information, is enclosed with this newsletter. If you would like a pad of order forms, please contact Linda Blue at [email protected] or Christina Zielinski at [email protected].
Volume 1 • Number 3In This Issue
Patient Satisfaction ScoresRemain High
New Advanced Imaging Center to Feature 3 Telsa Magnet
Reduction in Radiation Dose Improves Patient Safety
Baylor Adds New MR Scanner
Baylor Dallas Welcomes New Director of Radiology Imaging
Ordering CT vs. MRI
Centers Offer Prompt Access and Turnaround
PET/CT Referral Made Easy
HighResolutionConsistent and Reliable Results from Baylor Diagnostic Imaging Centers
NONPROFIT ORGUS POSTAGE
PAIDDALLAS, TX
TWMS
96.5 96.5 96.4 94.696.5 94.696.5 96.4 94.696.4 96.5 96.4 96.5 94.696.5 96.4 96.5
Baylor Dallas Adds NanoKnife® For Advanced Minimally Invasive Cancer Treatment
As part of its commitment to providing comprehensive cancer care, Baylor University Medical Center at Dallas now offers treatment with the NanoKnife®, the fi rst treatment tool to use irreversible electroporation. Baylor Dallas is only the second medical center in Texas to offer this advanced technology.
Irreversible electroporation (IRE) causes cell death in soft-tissue. IRE opens permanent, nano-sized pores in the membranes of cells in the ablation zone. This irreversible damage causes cell death, while critical and often delicate nearby structures such as ducts and blood vessels remain viable.
Interventional radiologists on the medical staff of Baylor Dallas use the NanoKnife to treat small tumors (usually less than fi ve centimeters) which are considered inoperable or where radiation therapy is not advised. The NanoKnife can be used for both primary tumors and metastatic disease.
“The NanoKnife is a signifi cant addition to our options to treat solid tumors. It gives us a formidable tool to treat tumors that previously were not accessible either due to location or proximity to other structures,” said J.D. Meler, MD, an interventional radiologist on the medical staff of Baylor Dallas. “The NanoKnife delivers energy so quickly that the blood fl ow doesn’t have time to dissipate the heat or the energy. In addition, it does so in a manner that will not injure adjacent structures.”
How the NanoKnife WorksElectrode probes are positioned in or around the lesion. At least 90 short electrical pulses, each approximately less than 100 microseconds, are sent between the probes. The energy delivery portion of the procedure is normally completed in just a few minutes, and cell death in the abla-tion zone is detected within minutes. Unlike cryoablation or radiofrequency ablation, which both use thermal energy to destroy tissue, IRE does not expose tissue to extreme cold
Electrical Pulses
Placement of Probes
Ablation Zone
(Continued on page 2)
Patient Satisfaction Scores Remain HighPatient satisfaction is a top priority at Baylor University Medical Center at Dallas, Baylor Diagnostic Imaging Center at Junius and Baylor Diagnostic Imaging Center at North Dallas. From effi cient scheduling and registration, to patient comfort before and during procedures, all staff members work to create a positive experience for patients.
During July through September 2010, the combined mean scores from patient surveys reporting the likelihood of recommending these facilities exceeded 95 percent.
Baylor University Medical Center at Dallas: 94.6Baylor Diagnostic Imaging Center at Junius: 96.5Baylor Diagnostic Imaging Center at North Dallas: 96.4
Quality Staff and Equipment Make a DifferenceThe images produced at Baylor Dallas, Baylor Diagnostic Imaging Center at Junius and Baylor Diagnostic Imaging Center at North Dallas are interpreted by a skilled team of radiologists on the Baylor Dallas medical staff. In addition, more than 50 radiologists on the medical staff of Baylor Dallas have subspecialty training in breast imaging, musculoskeletal radiology, neuroradiology, nuclear medicine.
Each facility has an experienced radiology and medical imaging staff who have dedicated licensures and credentials for their specifi c area. All equipment at Baylor Dallas, Baylor Diagnostic Imaging Center at Junius and Baylor Diagnostic Imaging Center at North Dallas is certifi ed by the American College of Radiology (ACR). At all centers, quality guidelines are met in accordance with Baylor Health Care System, ACR, Texas Department of State Health Services, American Registry of Radiologic Technologists, American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonographers, and for Junius, the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certifi cation Board for certifi ed nuclear medicine technologists.
New Advanced Imaging Center to Feature 3 Tesla MagnetA new outpatient imaging center featuring the fi rst 3 Tesla MR scanner in Baylor Health Care System will open by Feb. 1, 2011, in the Baylor Tom Landry Health and Wellness Center. The center is located at 411 N. Washington Ave.
The center will specialize in providing services for advanced neurological imaging, orthopaedic imaging and bariatric imaging in MRI, CT and radiographic and fl uoroscopy.
For more information, contact Christy McSpedden at [email protected].
Hours of Operation:Monday–Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 214.820.8770214.820.8778 Fax
Baylor Diagnostic Imaging Center at Junius
Baylor Diagnostic Imaging Center at North Dallas
OP_Imaging_Nltr._Vol. 1_No. 3.indd 1 8/15/11 4:25 PM
Baylor Dallas Adds NanoKnife® For Advanced Minimally Invasive Cancer Treatment
or heat. The treated area begins to heal shortly after the procedure. The body’s normal healing response produces cells that surround and remove the dead cells from the region.
IRE treatment using the NanoKnife can be done minimally invasive or surgically, and is performed under general anesthesia with ultrasound or CT guidance. Treatment usually requires only a brief hospital stay – some patients can go home the same day. Because it generally causes few side effects and little scarring, NanoKnife treatments can be repeated if new lesions develop.
For more information, call 214.820.4745.
Reduction in Radiation Dose Improves Patient SafetyAlthough the X-ray dose from one scan may have only a small risk of causing cancer, the risk can start to increase if a patient has numerous CT scans. In the last two years, the Emergency Radiology Department at Baylor University Medical Center at Dallas has implemented an initiative to use the lowest effective radiation dose for scans.
Because the quality of the image is affected by the amount of radiation used, the goal of the initiative has been to maintain image quality while reducing radiation dose to the greatest extent possible. To date, the overall amount of radiation used in neuro imaging was reduced by 20 percent and in body imaging by approximately 55 percent.
“A reduction of 20 percent in neuro imaging is actually more significant because the image quality of the brain is more sensitive than muscle or skin on the arm or abdomen,” said Chuck Anderson, ED radiology clinical supervisor at Baylor Dallas. “Even minute changes in technique can improve or degrade the image so we have less latitude to reduce dose on the neuro side.”
The reduction-in-dose initiative began when Baylor Dallas enlarged its ED and added GE 64-slice and 32-slice scanners, which has the capacity to generate more radiation to acquire the same type of images.
“We looked at the scanner configurations and the dosages to determine if they were too low or too high,” Mr. Anderson said. “If you use the same techniques on different detector configurations, the radiation dose will be higher or lower than you really want. We determined that we could lower the dosages if we work with the radiologists who are accustomed to reading images every day. The end result was lower radiation dose without unacceptable image quality degradation.”
Individually, the amount of the reduction in radiation will vary according to each patient’s physical characteristics. In larger patients, more radiation is required to acquire the same type of quality image.
Mr. Anderson said the imaging protocols tested and developed in the ED will be a model through-out Baylor Health Care System by the end of the year.
Baylor Dallas Adds New Hospital-Based MR ScannerWide bore • Patients More Than 350 Lbs. • Studies for Chronic Kidney Problems
Baylor University Medical Center at Dallas recently installed a new MR scanner in the hospital’s Imaging Department. The 450W GE wide bore system can accommodate patients up to 500 pounds. It also has a bore size of 70 cm, which can better accommodate claustrophobic and/or obese patients.
The new MR scanner features:• Inhance software allows for non-contrast angiography. This is important for
patients with impaired kidney function. Imaging of non-contrast run-offs, 3D magnetic resonance venography of the brain and magnetic resonance angiography of the renals also is possible.
• Runoffs—new software allows imaging of vessels from the renals to the feet in eight minutes using a contrast technique.
• New endorectal coil used for imaging of the prostate. Prostate spectroscopy is also available.
• Full cardiac package plus new cardiac navigation system that tracks the diaphragm and uses the information to acquire crisp 3D gradient echo images of the heart even while the patient breathes.
Baylor Dallas Welcomes New Director of Radiology ImagingStephan Lopez, M.S., RT(R) has joined Baylor University Medical Center at Dallas as Director of Radiology Imaging. He comes to Baylor Dallas from Christus St.Vincent Regional Medical Center in Santa Fe, N.M., where he was Director of Radiology and the Cath Lab.
A certified radiology technologist since 1976, Mr. Lopez also has served as Assistant Vice President of Diagnostic and Therapeutic Radiology at St. Luke’s Episcopal Hospital in Houston and Operations Manager of the Division of Diagnostic Imaging at the University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center.
“My goals are to enhance the leadership of imaging services at Baylor Dallas and develop a more patient-centered department,” he said. “I want to help ensure that the imaging depart-ment functions operationally to its optimum and provide outstanding leadership for our patients, physicians and staff.”
Mr. Lopez holds a bachelor’s degree in human resource management and a master’s degree in radiology administration. He is a fellow with American Health Care Radiology Administrators.
Ordering CT vs. MRIEven though CT and MR images are both cross-sectional, totally different physical properties are used to create images of the body. Therefore the information on the images can be very different, making the decision of which test to order a complex issue.
The fellowship-trained, subspecialized radiologists on the medical staff of Baylor University Medical Center at Dallas regularly consult with primary care physicians, internists and other clinicians about what test is most appropriate for their patients.
In the neurological area, CT is the first choice in trauma cases to quickly determine if there is fracture or bleeding. MRI is usually the preferred choice to image disorders of the brain and spine, including MS, headaches, strokes, disk herniations or congenital abnormalities.
“The question of what test to do and when for the abdominal area is much more complicated,” said Karl Glastad, MD, a radiologist on the medical staff at Baylor Dallas who specializes in MRI. “We generally start with ultrasound and CT, and then progress to MRI. CT and ultrasound are easier on patients than getting an MR scan. Also, CTs take less time and are generally more available since there is more CT scanner capacity.”
MR scans are more accurate when looking at soft tissue, Dr. Glastad said. Baylor Dallas has dedicated MR coils for breast, cardiac, prostate and musculoskeletal conditions. Some specific tumors are better seen with MR than CT.
Another issue that can affect the decision of whether to order a CT or MRI is a patient’s potential sensitivity to contrast. Gadolinium, the contrast used in MRI for neuro and body, is safer in general. Gadolinium is less toxic and has a lower incidence of allergic reactions than the iodine contrast used in CT.
“When a patient has moderate to severe renal disease, MR without contrast can still yield a lot of information,” he said.
At times, CT must be ordered when an MR is absolutely contraindicated. MR cannot be done on patient with pacemakers or those with embedded metallic orbital foreign bodies, such as metalworkers. Another common limitation for both CT and MR is the overall size of the patient. Many bariatric patients simply won’t fit in the scanners or exceed the table weight limit.“At Baylor, we’ve taken the time to develop a system that will give us the best results,” Dr. Glastad said. “We encourage clinicians to call us with any questions or concerns they have. Once we know the clinical issue, we can customize the imaging study as needed.”
To order a CT or MR scan, call 214.820.1700.
(Continued from page 1)
The 450W GE wide bore system can accommodate patients up to 500 pounds. It also has a bore size of 70 cm, which can better accommodate claustrophobic and/or obese patients.
Stephan Lopez, M.S., RT(R)
Newsletter Offered Electronically
If you would prefer to receive this newsletter
electronically, please send your email address
OP_Imaging_Nltr._Vol. 1_No. 3.indd 2 8/15/11 4:30 PM
Baylor Dallas Adds NanoKnife® For Advanced Minimally Invasive Cancer Treatment
or heat. The treated area begins to heal shortly after the procedure. The body’s normal healing response produces cells that surround and remove the dead cells from the region.
IRE treatment using the NanoKnife can be done minimally invasive or surgically, and is performed under general anesthesia with ultrasound or CT guidance. Treatment usually requires only a brief hospital stay – some patients can go home the same day. Because it generally causes few side effects and little scarring, NanoKnife treatments can be repeated if new lesions develop.
For more information, call 214.820.4745.
Reduction in Radiation Dose Improves Patient SafetyAlthough the X-ray dose from one scan may have only a small risk of causing cancer, the risk can start to increase if a patient has numerous CT scans. In the last two years, the Emergency Radiology Department at Baylor University Medical Center at Dallas has implemented an initiative to use the lowest effective radiation dose for scans.
Because the quality of the image is affected by the amount of radiation used, the goal of the initiative has been to maintain image quality while reducing radiation dose to the greatest extent possible. To date, the overall amount of radiation used in neuro imaging was reduced by 20 percent and in body imaging by approximately 55 percent.
“A reduction of 20 percent in neuro imaging is actually more significant because the image quality of the brain is more sensitive than muscle or skin on the arm or abdomen,” said Chuck Anderson, ED radiology clinical supervisor at Baylor Dallas. “Even minute changes in technique can improve or degrade the image so we have less latitude to reduce dose on the neuro side.”
The reduction-in-dose initiative began when Baylor Dallas enlarged its ED and added GE 64-slice and 32-slice scanners, which has the capacity to generate more radiation to acquire the same type of images.
“We looked at the scanner configurations and the dosages to determine if they were too low or too high,” Mr. Anderson said. “If you use the same techniques on different detector configurations, the radiation dose will be higher or lower than you really want. We determined that we could lower the dosages if we work with the radiologists who are accustomed to reading images every day. The end result was lower radiation dose without unacceptable image quality degradation.”
Individually, the amount of the reduction in radiation will vary according to each patient’s physical characteristics. In larger patients, more radiation is required to acquire the same type of quality image.
Mr. Anderson said the imaging protocols tested and developed in the ED will be a model through-out Baylor Health Care System by the end of the year.
Baylor Dallas Adds New Hospital-Based MR ScannerWide bore • Patients More Than 350 Lbs. • Studies for Chronic Kidney Problems
Baylor University Medical Center at Dallas recently installed a new MR scanner in the hospital’s Imaging Department. The 450W GE wide bore system can accommodate patients up to 500 pounds. It also has a bore size of 70 cm, which can better accommodate claustrophobic and/or obese patients.
The new MR scanner features:• Inhance software allows for non-contrast angiography. This is important for
patients with impaired kidney function. Imaging of non-contrast run-offs, 3D magnetic resonance venography of the brain and magnetic resonance angiography of the renals also is possible.
• Runoffs—new software allows imaging of vessels from the renals to the feet in eight minutes using a contrast technique.
• New endorectal coil used for imaging of the prostate. Prostate spectroscopy is also available.
• Full cardiac package plus new cardiac navigation system that tracks the diaphragm and uses the information to acquire crisp 3D gradient echo images of the heart even while the patient breathes.
Baylor Dallas Welcomes New Director of Radiology ImagingStephan Lopez, M.S., RT(R) has joined Baylor University Medical Center at Dallas as Director of Radiology Imaging. He comes to Baylor Dallas from Christus St.Vincent Regional Medical Center in Santa Fe, N.M., where he was Director of Radiology and the Cath Lab.
A certified radiology technologist since 1976, Mr. Lopez also has served as Assistant Vice President of Diagnostic and Therapeutic Radiology at St. Luke’s Episcopal Hospital in Houston and Operations Manager of the Division of Diagnostic Imaging at the University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center.
“My goals are to enhance the leadership of imaging services at Baylor Dallas and develop a more patient-centered department,” he said. “I want to help ensure that the imaging depart-ment functions operationally to its optimum and provide outstanding leadership for our patients, physicians and staff.”
Mr. Lopez holds a bachelor’s degree in human resource management and a master’s degree in radiology administration. He is a fellow with American Health Care Radiology Administrators.
Ordering CT vs. MRIEven though CT and MR images are both cross-sectional, totally different physical properties are used to create images of the body. Therefore the information on the images can be very different, making the decision of which test to order a complex issue.
The fellowship-trained, subspecialized radiologists on the medical staff of Baylor University Medical Center at Dallas regularly consult with primary care physicians, internists and other clinicians about what test is most appropriate for their patients.
In the neurological area, CT is the first choice in trauma cases to quickly determine if there is fracture or bleeding. MRI is usually the preferred choice to image disorders of the brain and spine, including MS, headaches, strokes, disk herniations or congenital abnormalities.
“The question of what test to do and when for the abdominal area is much more complicated,” said Karl Glastad, MD, a radiologist on the medical staff at Baylor Dallas who specializes in MRI. “We generally start with ultrasound and CT, and then progress to MRI. CT and ultrasound are easier on patients than getting an MR scan. Also, CTs take less time and are generally more available since there is more CT scanner capacity.”
MR scans are more accurate when looking at soft tissue, Dr. Glastad said. Baylor Dallas has dedicated MR coils for breast, cardiac, prostate and musculoskeletal conditions. Some specific tumors are better seen with MR than CT.
Another issue that can affect the decision of whether to order a CT or MRI is a patient’s potential sensitivity to contrast. Gadolinium, the contrast used in MRI for neuro and body, is safer in general. Gadolinium is less toxic and has a lower incidence of allergic reactions than the iodine contrast used in CT.
“When a patient has moderate to severe renal disease, MR without contrast can still yield a lot of information,” he said.
At times, CT must be ordered when an MR is absolutely contraindicated. MR cannot be done on patient with pacemakers or those with embedded metallic orbital foreign bodies, such as metalworkers. Another common limitation for both CT and MR is the overall size of the patient. Many bariatric patients simply won’t fit in the scanners or exceed the table weight limit.“At Baylor, we’ve taken the time to develop a system that will give us the best results,” Dr. Glastad said. “We encourage clinicians to call us with any questions or concerns they have. Once we know the clinical issue, we can customize the imaging study as needed.”
To order a CT or MR scan, call 214.820.1700.
(Continued from page 1)
The 450W GE wide bore system can accommodate patients up to 500 pounds. It also has a bore size of 70 cm, which can better accommodate claustrophobic and/or obese patients.
Stephan Lopez, M.S., RT(R)
Newsletter Offered Electronically
If you would prefer to receive this newsletter
electronically, please send your email address
OP_Imaging_Nltr._Vol. 1_No. 3.indd 2 8/15/11 4:25 PM
Baylor Dallas Adds NanoKnife® For Advanced Minimally Invasive Cancer Treatment
or heat. The treated area begins to heal shortly after the procedure. The body’s normal healing response produces cells that surround and remove the dead cells from the region.
IRE treatment using the NanoKnife can be done minimally invasive or surgically, and is performed under general anesthesia with ultrasound or CT guidance. Treatment usually requires only a brief hospital stay – some patients can go home the same day. Because it generally causes few side effects and little scarring, NanoKnife treatments can be repeated if new lesions develop.
For more information, call 214.820.4745.
Reduction in Radiation Dose Improves Patient SafetyAlthough the X-ray dose from one scan may have only a small risk of causing cancer, the risk can start to increase if a patient has numerous CT scans. In the last two years, the Emergency Radiology Department at Baylor University Medical Center at Dallas has implemented an initiative to use the lowest effective radiation dose for scans.
Because the quality of the image is affected by the amount of radiation used, the goal of the initiative has been to maintain image quality while reducing radiation dose to the greatest extent possible. To date, the overall amount of radiation used in neuro imaging was reduced by 20 percent and in body imaging by approximately 55 percent.
“A reduction of 20 percent in neuro imaging is actually more significant because the image quality of the brain is more sensitive than muscle or skin on the arm or abdomen,” said Chuck Anderson, ED radiology clinical supervisor at Baylor Dallas. “Even minute changes in technique can improve or degrade the image so we have less latitude to reduce dose on the neuro side.”
The reduction-in-dose initiative began when Baylor Dallas enlarged its ED and added GE 64-slice and 32-slice scanners, which has the capacity to generate more radiation to acquire the same type of images.
“We looked at the scanner configurations and the dosages to determine if they were too low or too high,” Mr. Anderson said. “If you use the same techniques on different detector configurations, the radiation dose will be higher or lower than you really want. We determined that we could lower the dosages if we work with the radiologists who are accustomed to reading images every day. The end result was lower radiation dose without unacceptable image quality degradation.”
Individually, the amount of the reduction in radiation will vary according to each patient’s physical characteristics. In larger patients, more radiation is required to acquire the same type of quality image.
Mr. Anderson said the imaging protocols tested and developed in the ED will be a model through-out Baylor Health Care System by the end of the year.
Baylor Dallas Adds New Hospital-Based MR ScannerWide bore • Patients More Than 350 Lbs. • Studies for Chronic Kidney Problems
Baylor University Medical Center at Dallas recently installed a new MR scanner in the hospital’s Imaging Department. The 450W GE wide bore system can accommodate patients up to 500 pounds. It also has a bore size of 70 cm, which can better accommodate claustrophobic and/or obese patients.
The new MR scanner features:• Inhance software allows for non-contrast angiography. This is important for
patients with impaired kidney function. Imaging of non-contrast run-offs, 3D magnetic resonance venography of the brain and magnetic resonance angiography of the renals also is possible.
• Runoffs—new software allows imaging of vessels from the renals to the feet in eight minutes using a contrast technique.
• New endorectal coil used for imaging of the prostate. Prostate spectroscopy is also available.
• Full cardiac package plus new cardiac navigation system that tracks the diaphragm and uses the information to acquire crisp 3D gradient echo images of the heart even while the patient breathes.
Baylor Dallas Welcomes New Director of Radiology ImagingStephan Lopez, M.S., RT(R) has joined Baylor University Medical Center at Dallas as Director of Radiology Imaging. He comes to Baylor Dallas from Christus St.Vincent Regional Medical Center in Santa Fe, N.M., where he was Director of Radiology and the Cath Lab.
A certified radiology technologist since 1976, Mr. Lopez also has served as Assistant Vice President of Diagnostic and Therapeutic Radiology at St. Luke’s Episcopal Hospital in Houston and Operations Manager of the Division of Diagnostic Imaging at the University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center.
“My goals are to enhance the leadership of imaging services at Baylor Dallas and develop a more patient-centered department,” he said. “I want to help ensure that the imaging depart-ment functions operationally to its optimum and provide outstanding leadership for our patients, physicians and staff.”
Mr. Lopez holds a bachelor’s degree in human resource management and a master’s degree in radiology administration. He is a fellow with American Health Care Radiology Administrators.
Ordering CT vs. MRIEven though CT and MR images are both cross-sectional, totally different physical properties are used to create images of the body. Therefore the information on the images can be very different, making the decision of which test to order a complex issue.
The fellowship-trained, subspecialized radiologists on the medical staff of Baylor University Medical Center at Dallas regularly consult with primary care physicians, internists and other clinicians about what test is most appropriate for their patients.
In the neurological area, CT is the first choice in trauma cases to quickly determine if there is fracture or bleeding. MRI is usually the preferred choice to image disorders of the brain and spine, including MS, headaches, strokes, disk herniations or congenital abnormalities.
“The question of what test to do and when for the abdominal area is much more complicated,” said Karl Glastad, MD, a radiologist on the medical staff at Baylor Dallas who specializes in MRI. “We generally start with ultrasound and CT, and then progress to MRI. CT and ultrasound are easier on patients than getting an MR scan. Also, CTs take less time and are generally more available since there is more CT scanner capacity.”
MR scans are more accurate when looking at soft tissue, Dr. Glastad said. Baylor Dallas has dedicated MR coils for breast, cardiac, prostate and musculoskeletal conditions. Some specific tumors are better seen with MR than CT.
Another issue that can affect the decision of whether to order a CT or MRI is a patient’s potential sensitivity to contrast. Gadolinium, the contrast used in MRI for neuro and body, is safer in general. Gadolinium is less toxic and has a lower incidence of allergic reactions than the iodine contrast used in CT.
“When a patient has moderate to severe renal disease, MR without contrast can still yield a lot of information,” he said.
At times, CT must be ordered when an MR is absolutely contraindicated. MR cannot be done on patient with pacemakers or those with embedded metallic orbital foreign bodies, such as metalworkers. Another common limitation for both CT and MR is the overall size of the patient. Many bariatric patients simply won’t fit in the scanners or exceed the table weight limit.“At Baylor, we’ve taken the time to develop a system that will give us the best results,” Dr. Glastad said. “We encourage clinicians to call us with any questions or concerns they have. Once we know the clinical issue, we can customize the imaging study as needed.”
To order a CT or MR scan, call 214.820.1700.
(Continued from page 1)
The 450W GE wide bore system can accommodate patients up to 500 pounds. It also has a bore size of 70 cm, which can better accommodate claustrophobic and/or obese patients.
Stephan Lopez, M.S., RT(R)
Newsletter Offered Electronically
If you would prefer to receive this newsletter
electronically, please send your email address
OP_Imaging_Nltr._Vol. 1_No. 3.indd 2 8/15/11 4:25 PM
Educational Brochures Available in SpanishCT, MRI and PET scanning patient education brochures are available in Spanish. To receive a supply, please contact Christina Zielinski at [email protected].
Baylor Diagnostic Imaging Center at North Dallas
96.5
96.4
Baylor Diagnostic Imaging Center at Junius
94.6Baylor University
Medical Center at Dallas
3500 Gaston AvenueDallas, Texas 75246
Three Convenient LocationsBaylor Dallas Campus3500 Gaston AvenueRoberts Hospital, First FloorMedical Imaging DepartmentDallas, Texas 75246214.820.1700214.820.6088 Fax
Outpatient Hours of Operation:Monday–Friday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.Saturday–Sunday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Baylor Diagnostic Imaging Center at JuniusBaylor Medical Pavilion3900 Junius Street, Suite 100Dallas, Texas 75246214.820.6900214.820.6902 Fax
Hours of Operation:Monday–Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Baylor Diagnostic Imaging Center at North Dallas9101 North Central Expy., Suite 100Dallas, Texas 75231214.820.1606214.820.1610 Fax
Hours of Operation:Monday–Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Physicians are members of the medical staff at one of the Baylor Health Care System’s subsidiary, community or affiliated medical centers and are neither employees nor agents of those medical centers, Baylor University Medical Center, or Baylor Health Care System. Photographs may include models or actors and may not represent actual patients. © 2010 Baylor Health Care System BCIC_51_2010
Centers Offer Prompt Access and TurnaroundIn many cases, same-day or next-day appointments are available for all modalities at Baylor Diagnostic Imaging Center at North Dallas and Baylor Diagnostic Imaging Center at Junius.
All reports are faxed within 24 to 36 hours to the referring physician’s offi ce. Both outpatient imaging centers share the same picture archiving and communication system (PACS) as Baylor Dallas, as well as the same managed care contracts.
Both the Junius and North Dallas imaging centers have iSTAT® machines so that stat blood work for creatinine levels may be performed before giving a patient CT and/or MRI contrast.
The North Dallas imaging center is located about 10 minutes away from Baylor University MedicalCenter at Dallas, just seven miles north of the main Baylor Dallas campus (south of I-635) on the north-west corner of Park Lane and Central Expressway. Parking is free.
PET/CT Referral Made EasyA PET/CT Physician Order Form, which includes patient education information, is enclosed with this newsletter. If you would like a pad of order forms, please contact Linda Blue at [email protected] or Christina Zielinski at [email protected].
Volume 1 • Number 3In This Issue
Patient Satisfaction ScoresRemain High
New Advanced Imaging Center to Feature 3 Telsa Magnet
Reduction in Radiation Dose Improves Patient Safety
Baylor Adds New MR Scanner
Baylor Dallas Welcomes New Director of Radiology Imaging
Ordering CT vs. MRI
Centers Offer Prompt Access and Turnaround
PET/CT Referral Made Easy
HighResolutionConsistent and Reliable Results from Baylor Diagnostic Imaging Centers
NONPROFIT ORGUS POSTAGE
PAIDDALLAS, TX
TWMS
96.5 96.5 96.4 94.696.5 94.696.5 96.4 94.696.4 96.5 96.4 96.5 94.696.5 96.4 96.5
Baylor Dallas Adds NanoKnife® For Advanced Minimally Invasive Cancer Treatment
As part of its commitment to providing comprehensive cancer care, Baylor University Medical Center at Dallas now offers treatment with the NanoKnife®, the fi rst treatment tool to use irreversible electroporation. Baylor Dallas is only the second medical center in Texas to offer this advanced technology.
Irreversible electroporation (IRE) causes cell death in soft-tissue. IRE opens permanent, nano-sized pores in the membranes of cells in the ablation zone. This irreversible damage causes cell death, while critical and often delicate nearby structures such as ducts and blood vessels remain viable.
Interventional radiologists on the medical staff of Baylor Dallas use the NanoKnife to treat small tumors (usually less than fi ve centimeters) which are considered inoperable or where radiation therapy is not advised. The NanoKnife can be used for both primary tumors and metastatic disease.
“The NanoKnife is a signifi cant addition to our options to treat solid tumors. It gives us a formidable tool to treat tumors that previously were not accessible either due to location or proximity to other structures,” said J.D. Meler, MD, an interventional radiologist on the medical staff of Baylor Dallas. “The NanoKnife delivers energy so quickly that the blood fl ow doesn’t have time to dissipate the heat or the energy. In addition, it does so in a manner that will not injure adjacent structures.”
How the NanoKnife WorksElectrode probes are positioned in or around the lesion. At least 90 short electrical pulses, each approximately less than 100 microseconds, are sent between the probes. The energy delivery portion of the procedure is normally completed in just a few minutes, and cell death in the abla-tion zone is detected within minutes. Unlike cryoablation or radiofrequency ablation, which both use thermal energy to destroy tissue, IRE does not expose tissue to extreme cold
Electrical Pulses
Placement of Probes
Ablation Zone
(Continued on page 2)
Patient Satisfaction Scores Remain HighPatient satisfaction is a top priority at Baylor University Medical Center at Dallas, Baylor Diagnostic Imaging Center at Junius and Baylor Diagnostic Imaging Center at North Dallas. From effi cient scheduling and registration, to patient comfort before and during procedures, all staff members work to create a positive experience for patients.
During July through September 2010, the combined mean scores from patient surveys reporting the likelihood of recommending these facilities exceeded 95 percent.
Baylor University Medical Center at Dallas: 94.6Baylor Diagnostic Imaging Center at Junius: 96.5Baylor Diagnostic Imaging Center at North Dallas: 96.4
Quality Staff and Equipment Make a DifferenceThe images produced at Baylor Dallas, Baylor Diagnostic Imaging Center at Junius and Baylor Diagnostic Imaging Center at North Dallas are interpreted by a skilled team of radiologists on the Baylor Dallas medical staff. In addition, more than 50 radiologists on the medical staff of Baylor Dallas have subspecialty training in breast imaging, musculoskeletal radiology, neuroradiology, nuclear medicine.
Each facility has an experienced radiology and medical imaging staff who have dedicated licensures and credentials for their specifi c area. All equipment at Baylor Dallas, Baylor Diagnostic Imaging Center at Junius and Baylor Diagnostic Imaging Center at North Dallas is certifi ed by the American College of Radiology (ACR). At all centers, quality guidelines are met in accordance with Baylor Health Care System, ACR, Texas Department of State Health Services, American Registry of Radiologic Technologists, American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonographers, and for Junius, the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certifi cation Board for certifi ed nuclear medicine technologists.
New Advanced Imaging Center to Feature 3 Tesla MagnetA new outpatient imaging center featuring the fi rst 3 Tesla MR scanner in Baylor Health Care System will open by Feb. 1, 2011, in the Baylor Tom Landry Health and Wellness Center. The center is located at 411 N. Washington Ave.
The center will specialize in providing services for advanced neurological imaging, orthopaedic imaging and bariatric imaging in MRI, CT and radiographic and fl uoroscopy.
For more information, contact Christy McSpedden at [email protected].
Hours of Operation:Monday–Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 214.820.8770214.820.8778 Fax
Baylor Diagnostic Imaging Center at Junius
Baylor Diagnostic Imaging Center at North Dallas
OP_Imaging_Nltr._Vol. 1_No. 3.indd 1 8/15/11 4:25 PM
Educational Brochures Available in SpanishCT, MRI and PET scanning patient education brochures are available in Spanish. To receive a supply, please contact Christina Zielinski at [email protected].
Baylor Diagnostic Imaging Center at North Dallas
96.5
96.4
Baylor Diagnostic Imaging Center at Junius
94.6Baylor University
Medical Center at Dallas
3500 Gaston AvenueDallas, Texas 75246
Three Convenient LocationsBaylor Dallas Campus3500 Gaston AvenueRoberts Hospital, First FloorMedical Imaging DepartmentDallas, Texas 75246214.820.1700214.820.6088 Fax
Outpatient Hours of Operation:Monday–Friday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.Saturday–Sunday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Baylor Diagnostic Imaging Center at JuniusBaylor Medical Pavilion3900 Junius Street, Suite 100Dallas, Texas 75246214.820.6900214.820.6902 Fax
Hours of Operation:Monday–Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Baylor Diagnostic Imaging Center at North Dallas9101 North Central Expy., Suite 100Dallas, Texas 75231214.820.1606214.820.1610 Fax
Hours of Operation:Monday–Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Physicians are members of the medical staff at one of the Baylor Health Care System’s subsidiary, community or affiliated medical centers and are neither employees nor agents of those medical centers, Baylor University Medical Center, or Baylor Health Care System. Photographs may include models or actors and may not represent actual patients. © 2010 Baylor Health Care System BCIC_51_2010
Centers Offer Prompt Access and TurnaroundIn many cases, same-day or next-day appointments are available for all modalities at Baylor Diagnostic Imaging Center at North Dallas and Baylor Diagnostic Imaging Center at Junius.
All reports are faxed within 24 to 36 hours to the referring physician’s offi ce. Both outpatient imaging centers share the same picture archiving and communication system (PACS) as Baylor Dallas, as well as the same managed care contracts.
Both the Junius and North Dallas imaging centers have iSTAT® machines so that stat blood work for creatinine levels may be performed before giving a patient CT and/or MRI contrast.
The North Dallas imaging center is located about 10 minutes away from Baylor University MedicalCenter at Dallas, just seven miles north of the main Baylor Dallas campus (south of I-635) on the north-west corner of Park Lane and Central Expressway. Parking is free.
PET/CT Referral Made EasyA PET/CT Physician Order Form, which includes patient education information, is enclosed with this newsletter. If you would like a pad of order forms, please contact Linda Blue at [email protected] or Christina Zielinski at [email protected].
Volume 1 • Number 3In This Issue
Patient Satisfaction ScoresRemain High
New Advanced Imaging Center to Feature 3 Telsa Magnet
Reduction in Radiation Dose Improves Patient Safety
Baylor Adds New MR Scanner
Baylor Dallas Welcomes New Director of Radiology Imaging
Ordering CT vs. MRI
Centers Offer Prompt Access and Turnaround
PET/CT Referral Made Easy
HighResolutionConsistent and Reliable Results from Baylor Diagnostic Imaging Centers
NONPROFIT ORGUS POSTAGE
PAIDDALLAS, TX
TWMS
96.5 96.5 96.4 94.696.5 94.696.5 96.4 94.696.4 96.5 96.4 96.5 94.696.5 96.4 96.5
Baylor Dallas Adds NanoKnife® For Advanced Minimally Invasive Cancer Treatment
As part of its commitment to providing comprehensive cancer care, Baylor University Medical Center at Dallas now offers treatment with the NanoKnife®, the fi rst treatment tool to use irreversible electroporation. Baylor Dallas is only the second medical center in Texas to offer this advanced technology.
Irreversible electroporation (IRE) causes cell death in soft-tissue. IRE opens permanent, nano-sized pores in the membranes of cells in the ablation zone. This irreversible damage causes cell death, while critical and often delicate nearby structures such as ducts and blood vessels remain viable.
Interventional radiologists on the medical staff of Baylor Dallas use the NanoKnife to treat small tumors (usually less than fi ve centimeters) which are considered inoperable or where radiation therapy is not advised. The NanoKnife can be used for both primary tumors and metastatic disease.
“The NanoKnife is a signifi cant addition to our options to treat solid tumors. It gives us a formidable tool to treat tumors that previously were not accessible either due to location or proximity to other structures,” said J.D. Meler, MD, an interventional radiologist on the medical staff of Baylor Dallas. “The NanoKnife delivers energy so quickly that the blood fl ow doesn’t have time to dissipate the heat or the energy. In addition, it does so in a manner that will not injure adjacent structures.”
How the NanoKnife WorksElectrode probes are positioned in or around the lesion. At least 90 short electrical pulses, each approximately less than 100 microseconds, are sent between the probes. The energy delivery portion of the procedure is normally completed in just a few minutes, and cell death in the abla-tion zone is detected within minutes. Unlike cryoablation or radiofrequency ablation, which both use thermal energy to destroy tissue, IRE does not expose tissue to extreme cold
Electrical Pulses
Placement of Probes
Ablation Zone
(Continued on page 2)
Patient Satisfaction Scores Remain HighPatient satisfaction is a top priority at Baylor University Medical Center at Dallas, Baylor Diagnostic Imaging Center at Junius and Baylor Diagnostic Imaging Center at North Dallas. From effi cient scheduling and registration, to patient comfort before and during procedures, all staff members work to create a positive experience for patients.
During July through September 2010, the combined mean scores from patient surveys reporting the likelihood of recommending these facilities exceeded 95 percent.
Baylor University Medical Center at Dallas: 94.6Baylor Diagnostic Imaging Center at Junius: 96.5Baylor Diagnostic Imaging Center at North Dallas: 96.4
Quality Staff and Equipment Make a DifferenceThe images produced at Baylor Dallas, Baylor Diagnostic Imaging Center at Junius and Baylor Diagnostic Imaging Center at North Dallas are interpreted by a skilled team of radiologists on the Baylor Dallas medical staff. In addition, more than 50 radiologists on the medical staff of Baylor Dallas have subspecialty training in breast imaging, musculoskeletal radiology, neuroradiology, nuclear medicine.
Each facility has an experienced radiology and medical imaging staff who have dedicated licensures and credentials for their specifi c area. All equipment at Baylor Dallas, Baylor Diagnostic Imaging Center at Junius and Baylor Diagnostic Imaging Center at North Dallas is certifi ed by the American College of Radiology (ACR). At all centers, quality guidelines are met in accordance with Baylor Health Care System, ACR, Texas Department of State Health Services, American Registry of Radiologic Technologists, American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonographers, and for Junius, the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certifi cation Board for certifi ed nuclear medicine technologists.
New Advanced Imaging Center to Feature 3 Tesla MagnetA new outpatient imaging center featuring the fi rst 3 Tesla MR scanner in Baylor Health Care System will open by Feb. 1, 2011, in the Baylor Tom Landry Health and Wellness Center. The center is located at 411 N. Washington Ave.
The center will specialize in providing services for advanced neurological imaging, orthopaedic imaging and bariatric imaging in MRI, CT and radiographic and fl uoroscopy.
For more information, contact Christy McSpedden at [email protected].
Hours of Operation:Monday–Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 214.820.8770214.820.8778 Fax
Baylor Diagnostic Imaging Center at Junius
Baylor Diagnostic Imaging Center at North Dallas
OP_Imaging_Nltr._Vol. 1_No. 3.indd 1 8/15/11 4:30 PM
