Radiology

The Imaging Division provides a full diagnostic service using X-ray, Ultrasound, CT, MRI, and DEXA scanning machines. A range of services is carried out at City, Sandwell and Rowley Regis Hospitals. Ophthalmology related imaging is mainly provided at City Hospital.

The Division accepts referrals from both medical practitioners and agreed trust designated staff. The team carries out its work using some of the most sophisticated scanning equipment available.

Team

The unit comprises:

• Consultant Radiologists
• Breast Consultant Radiographers
• Superintendent Radiographer
• Radiographers
• Radiographic Helper
• Office Manager
• Clerical staff
• Medical Photographers
• Graphic designers

Services

The Imaging Division uses state-of-the-art equipment to provide diagnostic services using the following techniques:

Diagnostic Radiography

X Ray

Also known as the Plain Film Imaging section, this is one of the busiest in the department. Staff take images on an X ray machine using a special form of radiation that can ‘see through’ skin to look at the bones and tissue beneath. X-rays are most often used to tell whether or not a patient has broken or fractured bones. Machines are available at City, Sandwell and Rowley Regis hospitals.

All X Ray images now use computerised or direct digital scans. These images are then electronically stored on a specialised Trust wide computer system, and are available at any location where there is access to a computer via a secure log on.

Interventional radiology

This refers to a wide range of test that helps to support surgery.

CT Scans

Computed Tomography (CT) scanning – uses a machine which rotates half way around the body, sending out a thin beam of X-rays from several points. A 3D image is then created using a computer producing an image which is gives more detail than a standard X-ray. CT scanners are available at City & Sandwell hospitals.

MRI Scans

MRI stands for Magnetic Resonance Imaging. This is used to make very clear 3D images of the inside of the body, and is particularly effective for viewing the brain and the orbit. MRI scanners are available at City Hospital and Sandwell Hospitals.

DEXA scans

DEXA scans (dual energy x-ray absorption) are used to measure bone density. This is effective in the diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis (bone disease). DEXA scans are available at City and Sandwell Hospitals.

Ultrasound

This technique uses high frequency sound waves emitted by a hand-held scanner, which is held against the skin. Ultrasound scanners are available at all our sites. Patients from BMEC are usually referred for Carotid Doppler Ultrasound.

Other services include:

Nuclear Medicine

This is when small amounts of a radioactive chemical are injected into the body, or swallowed and then show up very clearly using our scanning equipment. This technique can be used to detect and treat diseases.

Radiopharmacy

The Radiopharmacy department manufactures radioactive chemicals for use in Nuclear Medicine and for other clinical trials in the hospital. The Radiopharmacy department prepares platelets for injection during macular hole surgery.

Medical Illustration

The Medical Illustration department produces visual materials for use in patient care, medical education and medical research. This includes general medical photography, specialist ophthalmic diagnostic photography, press and PR photography, and digital video recording, editing and multimedia production. They provide a full design service for presentations, posters, banners, signs etc and offer slide and print duplication.

Contacts

General appointments:

City Hospital – 0121 507 4728

Sandwell Hospital – 0121 507 2681

The NHS Appointments line: 0345 608 8888

If you would like to get in contact with any part of BMEC, please dial our central number 0121 507 4440.