Medical Imaging and Radiology

When your doctor gives you a prescription for an imaging test (X-ray, MRI, Nuclear Medicine, CT, Ultrasound, Mammogram), North Ottawa Community Hospital can help. We make it easy for you to take advantage of our advanced imaging technology provided by caring, qualified technologists and physicians.

NOCH's Department of Medical Imaging performs 45,000 cases per year. We are proud to have the latest state-of-the-art equipment with Board Certified and Fellowship trained Radiologists who are here to interpret your imaging study. Below are just some of the many ways we are here to help with your medical imaging needs.

Computed Tomography (CT Scan)

NOCH recently replaced our 16 slice CT scanner with a new GE 64 slice Lightspeed CT Scanner. This new scanner is more powerful, faster, and has higher resolution and detail to provide our radiologist with the sharpest image to provide a more accurate diagnosis. It also can perform a scan with the lowest dose of radiation on the lakeshore ultimately providing our patients with less radiation and better images in less time.

Cardiac Scans

NOCHS is now performing cardiac scan studies using its new, GE 64 slice CT Scanner, one of the most revolutionary technological advancements in diagnostic imaging. The scanner’s high resolution generates extremely sharp images, which provide a more accurate diagnosis. This scanner has the lowest dose of radiation on the lakeshore, which ultimately provides NOCHS patients with less radiation exposure and better images in less time.
In particular, the scanner allows imaging of very small blood vessels, such as Coronary Arteries. As a result, NOCHS has developed a protocol to provide this cutting-edge service that helps diagnose patients before an event occurs.
These scans are an outpatient procedure with the total scan taking only 20 seconds to perform.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

The Medical Imaging Department offers conventional MRI of the brain, spine, abdomen, and extremities. We have the ability to perform scans of the shoulder, wrist, and hip with contrast in the joint for a better detailed picture. We also now offer Breast MRI which scans 1,200 images of both breasts in one single visit. The scans are then interpreted by our radiologists with additional readings by Dr. Stephen Pomeranz in Cincinnati. Dr. Pomeranz is one of the leading Radiologists/Researchers in Breast MRI in the United States.

The Breast Evaluation Center

Our Breast Evaluation Center is accredited by the American College of Radiology. Screening and diagnostic mammograms are performed by licensed technologists. High resolution Breast Ultrasound is available as well as ultrasound guided Vacuum Assisted Biopsy, if needed. Each patient is examined by Registered Nurse and taught the value and technique of a self breast exam. If a patient has a significant finding, ultrasound and/or biopsy can be performed at the same visit.

Bone Density

NOCH recently purchased a new Bone Density Analysis machine that can evaluate the density of the spine, hips and forearm to help diagnose Osteoporosis and guide therapy. This machine can also determine total Body Fat.

Ultrasound/Nuclear Medicine/X-ray

The Department of Medical Imaging has two state-of-the-art ultrasound machines. Conventional imaging as well as Ultrasound Guided Biopsies or drainages can be performed, as well as Doppler analysis of the vessels. Our technologists have extra training and certifications to perform these exams. Nuclear Medicine scans are performed on a dual-head machine, with the latest protocols. Standard x-rays are performed with digital technique and are sent to the PACS computer system for evaluation by our radiologists. All digital exams are available to be reviewed by the referring physicians on their computers remotely, or can be printed on to a CD for easy travel.

To schedule your appointment with our Medical Imaging Department at North Ottawa Community Hospital call (616) 844-4800.