Imaging Services

Radiology uses X-rays, radioactive tracers and ultrasonic waves to detect, diagnose and guide treatment of numerous diseases and injuries. The discovery of the X-ray started radiological imaging, while continuing developments in technology, computers and science are further advancing the capability to view the body's inner structures, tissues and organs.

Our Radiology Crew
Our Radiology Crew

Radiological Procedures

Digital X-ray

An X-ray image is produced when a very small amount of radiation passes through the body to create an image on sensitive digital plates on the other side of the body. The ability of X-rays to penetrate tissues and bones depends on the tissue's composition and mass, and the difference between these two elements creates the image. Contrast agents, such as barium, may be swallowed to outline the esophagus, stomach and intestines to help provide better images of an organ.

Computed Tomography (CT)

CT scans are similar to conventional x-rays, but provide better clarity of internal organs, bone, soft tissue and blood vessels. Numerous x-ray beams and a set of electronic x-ray detectors rotate around the patient, measuring the amount of radiation being absorbed throughout the body. Multi-slice CT scanners obtain multiple slices in a single rotation thus acquiring thinner slices in a shorter period of time, resulting in more detail and additional view capability. CT is excellent for trauma as it gives quick results for emergency medical situations.

  • In April of 2017, the Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust’s Rural Healthcare Program awarded Mineral Community Hospital $400,000 for a new 32-slice CT scanner. The new scanner will have the ability to do faster scans, and create better images. It also provides up to 75 percent less radiation than the older model. We have the latest in dose reduction technology with the best in image quality.

 

Mineral Community Hospital Superior MT
Mammo machine

Digital Mammography

A digital mammogram uses low-dose x-ray to examine breasts and is commonly used to aid in the diagnosis of breast cancer in men and women.  Mineral Community Hospital offers patients state-of-the-art screening mammograms that are faster and easier than ever before.

  • The Mammograph Equipment at Mineral Community Hospital at is accredited by the American College of Radiology (ACR)

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

MRI uses radio waves and a strong magnetic field to create clear, detailed images of internal organs and tissues. Since X-rays are not used, no radiation exposure is involved. Instead, radio waves are directed at the body's protons within the magnetic field. This exam takes 30-50 minutes on average and consists of several imaging series. Most studies will require a small intravenous injection of a contrast agent that usually contains the metal Gadolinium. MRI contrast does not contain iodine, an element used in other contrast agents for X-rays or CT scans, so it may be safer for patients who are sensitive to iodine.

Mobile_MRI
MRI Mindy
echo

echocardiogram (echo)

An echocardiogram uses sound waves to create pictures of the heart. This common test can show blood flow through the heart and heart valves. Your health care provider can use the pictures from the test to find heart disease and other heart conditions. Your health care provider may order this test if you have chest pain or shortness of breath

There are different types of echocardiograms. The type you have depends on the reason for the test and your overall health

 

Rubber Duck

Dose Index Registry

Mineral Community Hospital participates in the Dose Index Registry (DIR), a data registry that allows facilities to compare their CT dose indices to regional and national valves. Information related to dose indices for all CT exams is collected, anonymized and transmitted to the ACR and stored in a database. Institutions are then provided with periodic feedback reports comparing their results to body part and exam type to aggregate results.

For Appointment please call the Radiology Department 406-822-3705

Radiology Scheduling and Hours:

**ER imaging is 7 days a week 24 hours a day**

Digital X-ray

Computed Tomography (CT) ( pre authorization may be needed for CT)

hours are Monday thru Friday 8am - 5pm

MRI 

Hours are Tuesday 8am - 11 am by appointment only (pre authorization may be needed for MRI )

Mammography 

Hours are Monday - Thursday 8:30 am - 4 pm

Echocardiogram

Appointment Only