Imaging Technology Enhancements in Schuylkill County

The old saying that a picture is worth a thousand words is evident when describing recent diagnostic imaging enhancements at Lehigh Valley Hospital (LVH)–Schuylkill. The hospital recently added a new, Hologic 3D™ mammography unit and constructed a new magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) suite complete with the latest SIGNA™ Voyager MRI from GE Healthcare.

“Investing in this enhanced imaging technology helps to strengthen our diagnostic capabilities as we strive to keep care where our patients want and need it, close-to-home,” says William “Bill” Reppy, President, LVH–Schuylkill. “We are fortunate to offer these enhancements to our comprehensive diagnostic capabilities in Schuylkill County.”

The new mammography unit in the hospital’s diagnostic imaging (radiology) wing, on the first floor of E. Norwegian Street, provides doctors with the fastest and highest resolution images in the industry. These high-tech images help identify cancers and other abnormalities early. This latest innovation is part of LVH–Schuylkill’s steadfast commitment to superior breast cancer detection and improved breast health for all women

“Early detection and diagnosis are key factors with breast cancer,” says Maria Eisenhart, BSRT (R), Director of Imaging and Cardiopulmonary Services. “This advanced imaging technology means greater diagnostic confidence for our doctors and the ability to help catch potential cancers in early stages, which ultimately translates to a better experience for our patient.” 

This is the second 3D unit at LVH–Schuylkill. The other is located at the LVHN Imaging Center, 171 Red Horse Road, Pottsville. 

Mammography is an X-ray imaging method used to examine the breast for the early detection of cancer and other breast diseases. It is used as both a diagnostic and screening tool. 3D mammography is an FDA-approved method for breast cancer screening in which X-rays of the breast are taken at different angles to generate thin cross-sections. The 3D representation of the breast is similar to the 3D images created by standard CT or computerized tomography technology but uses fewer X-ray beams and less X-ray exposure.

LVH–Schuylkill moved its MRI from Mauch Chunk Street to a new suite at LVH–Schuylkill E. Norwegian Street. The installation of new scanning technology combines the advancements in MRI with the sophisticated engineering of a 1.5T wide-bore system providing the sharpest images for doctors while offering more comfort and less claustrophobic conditions for patients.

“We are seeing superior images and decreased exam times,” says Hannah Coleman, RT (R) (MR), MRI technologist. “The transition to this new facility has been very smooth for both our colleagues and our patients.”

The new MRI suite provides both inpatient and outpatient studies for the Lehigh Valley Hospital–Schuylkill campus. In addition to the new construction and new MRI unit, the facility also includes a patient registration area, patient changing rooms, wardrobe lockers, new restrooms, comfortable patient/family waiting rooms and supporting space.

MRI is a non-invasive imaging technology that produces three dimensional detailed anatomical images. It is often used for disease detection, diagnosis and treatment monitoring. MRI scanners are particularly well suited to image the non-bony parts or soft tissues of the body.

Need an appointment? Call 888-402-LVHN (5846).