Imaging services

Nationally recognized diagnostic imaging in Portsmouth

Portsmouth Regional Hospital provides comprehensive imaging to patients on the Seacoast for the highest level of accuracy in diagnosis and treatment. Our full-service inpatient and outpatient medical imaging facilities provide convenient, personalized and comfortable care, with same-day or next-day availability for many procedures.

To schedule an appointment, or to learn more about our services, call (603) 559-4190.

We have been recognized by the American College of Radiology for excellence in mammography, computed tomography (CT), nuclear medicine, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), breast biopsy, breast MRI and breast ultrasound. These prestigious accreditations prove our team meets rigorous national standards of excellence and are evidence of our commitment to outstanding patient care.

Our board-certified radiologists and interventional radiologists use the latest advances in imaging and radiological technology to diagnose and treat your condition for optimal results. You'll experience faster turnaround for your test results and the highest level of professional, personalized service.

X-ray and fluoroscopy

X-rays use small doses of radiation to create pictures of the inside of the body. X-rays are especially helpful for bone fractures and joint injuries. They can also be used to find an infection, locate tumors, look for fluid in the lungs, locate the cause of an intestinal obstruction and diagnose heart and large blood vessel problems.

Fluoroscopy is a type of X-ray procedure that shows real-time, continuous images on a monitor, much like an X-ray movie. It is used to diagnose and treat a variety of health conditions by displaying the movement of a body part, medical instrument or dye (contrast agent) through the body.

Most X-ray procedures don't require an appointment, but you will need a signed order from your doctor.

Computed tomography (CT)

Computed tomography (CT) scans, also called computed axial tomography (CAT) scans, are a medical imaging method that uses X-rays to generate detailed cross-sectional images of the body. These image "slices" are used to detect broken bones, cancers, blood clots, signs of heart disease and internal bleeding, as well as to guide biopsies.

Portsmouth Regional Hospital offers the most advanced CT diagnostic imaging technology in the region, operated by specialists with national CT certification. Our innovative tools include 64-slice CT scanning and a wide-opening scanner with tumor localization technology. Used with our radiation planning system, these scans can simulate treatment in 3D, which allows for the highest degree of accuracy.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), a noninvasive procedure that uses magnetic fields rather than radiation, creates pictures of organs and structures inside the body. MRIs help physicians diagnose a range of health conditions and internal injuries. MRIs are also used to check to see if medicines or treatments are working properly.

We are one of the few hospitals in New Hampshire to offer wide-bore (3T) high-definition MRI, an innovative system that enables high-speed, high-resolution imaging of the body. Our MRI technology combines a more spacious environment with speed and exceptional performance to produce high-resolution images while reducing anxiety for people who may feel claustrophobic during a traditional MRI.

With a high-resolution MRI, a radiologist can see body structures in far greater detail than with traditional X-ray and MRI. The 3T MRI assists in diagnosing medical conditions affecting many areas of the body, including:

• Small joints, such as those of the wrist, elbow, hand and foot
• Brain and spinal cord
• Arteries and veins
• Abdominal and pelvic areas
• Breast tissue
• Prostate area

There are some restrictions that may prevent you from having an MRI. If you have a pacemaker, cochlear implants, surgically implanted metal clip, certain types of metal implants or are/may be pregnant, it is advised that you do not have an MRI.

Positron emission tomography (PET) scan

Positron emission tomography (PET) is a molecular imaging method that uses small amounts of radioactive material, called radiotracers, to detect molecular activity in the body. PET scans help doctors evaluate how well organs and tissues are working and diagnose many health conditions, including cancers, heart disease, neurological conditions and other disorders.

As part of our advanced diagnostic technology services, Portsmouth Regional Hospital can merge PET and CT imaging for even greater detail and accuracy. Combined PET/CT scanning offers the highest standard of care for diagnosis, evaluation and treatment of cancer by capturing images of how the body's metabolism changes as it deals with actively growing cancer cells.

Ultrasound

Ultrasound, also called sonography, uses high-frequency sound waves to create video images of soft tissue areas of the body.

We offer several types of ultrasound imaging, including endoscopic, echocardiogram and obstetric ultrasound using conventional, 3D and 3D color technology. We use ultrasound imaging to examine internal organs, including the GI tract, thyroid gland and reproductive systems, as well as to guide certain procedures, like needle biopsies.

Our diagnostic specialists also perform carotid ultrasound exams to assist physicians in viewing and evaluating blood flow and potential blockages, signaling disease in the carotid or vertebral arteries in the neck. This test may be ordered to diagnose a murmur in your neck, a stroke, vertigo or headaches.

Interventional radiology

Many conditions that once required surgery can now be treated non-surgically through interventional radiology. A sub-specialty of imaging using minimally invasive, image-guided procedures, interventional radiology can be used to diagnose and treat diseases in nearly every organ system. Using the least invasive techniques, interventional radiology procedures allow for less risk, less pain and shorter recovery time compared to open surgery.

Breast imaging center

Early detection of cancer increases the number of treatment options available. That is why Portsmouth Regional Hospital's Breast Center is committed to offering high-quality breast and diagnostic screening services, such as:

• 3D mammography
• Breast ultrasound and MRI
• Image-guided breast biopsies
• Breast imaging and breast cancer navigation
• Bone density testing

Preparing for imaging procedures

You will receive specific information about preparing for your procedure when we schedule your appointment. For the most accurate results from your procedure, follow all instructions provided. If you did not receive instructions, or if you have any questions, contact your doctor's office and ask to speak to a nurse.

On the day of your procedure, check in at the appropriate registration desk 20 minutes before your appointment. You will be asked to review and sign documents related to your procedure.

What to bring

• Written order from your doctor for your procedure
• Complete list of medications you currently take
• Your Social Security number
• All active insurance cards
• Photo identification