CT and Ultrasound Guided Biopsies

In today’s dynamic medical world, computerized imaging equipment can detect very small potentially malignant masses or other abnormalities. These suspicious masses are often detected during a routine mammogram or X-ray and are later biopsied to discover if there is malignancy or other disease present.

Small masses or abnormal tissue can be very difficult to locate without the use of CT and Ultrasound guided biopsies. Los Angeles area physicians rely on the advanced imaging technology available at Optima Diagnostic Imaging when obtaining tissue samples.

Having a real time image of the suspicious area allows the technologist to retrieve the tissue sample from the best location to ensure that the resulting diagnosis is as accurate as possible.

In cases where the mass or suspicious area is close to the surface or in a location where a needle biopsy isn’t possible, CT or Ultrasound scans assist the surgeon in locating and removing the mass.

Crystal Clear Diagnostic Images

Optima Diagnostic Imaging provides advanced CT and Ultrasound guided biopsies in the following areas:

• Abdomen Adrenal Gland
• Kidney
• Liver Lung
• Lymph Nodes
• Mediastinum
• Neck Soft Tissue
• Ovary
• Paravertebral Tissue
• Pelvis
• Pleura
• Retroperitoneal Area
• Thyroid

CT and Ultrasound Scanning Equipment – Different Technology

An Ultrasound machine consists of a video display, a transducer and a computer. Sound waves are directed through the transducer at the suspicious area and as they return to the video display via the computer, they create an image that shows internal structure. This facilitates the guidance of a needle or a scalpel to the exact location previously identified. The technology is similar to sonar used by in marine navigation. To assist the transfer of sound waves, a gel is applied to the area.

CT stands for computed tomography or computed axial tomography. This is an imaging technology that uses an X ray tube and X ray detectors in a ring, which is called a gantry. The technologist is situated in a control room separate from the CT machine. Patients are in communication with the technologist at all times. During a CT scan the physician is guided by the images so that tissue samples are obtained exactly from the targeted area insuring that diagnosis is accurate.

Ultrasound-Guided Thoracentesis and Paracentesis

Beyond diagnostic biopsies, ultrasound technology is essential for safely performing interventional drainage procedures. When excess fluid accumulates in body cavities often due to infection, heart failure, or liver disease, it can cause significant pain, pressure, and respiratory distress.

At Optima Diagnostic Imaging, we use real-time ultrasound guidance to perform:

• Thoracentesis: This procedure involves the removal of fluid from the area between the lungs and the chest wall. By using ultrasound to pinpoint the exact location of the fluid, our specialists can safely drain the pleural effusion. This allows the lungs to expand fully and relieves shortness of breath.
• Paracentesis: This procedure is used to remove a buildup of fluid in the abdominal cavity. Ultrasound guidance ensures the needle is placed precisely to avoid contact with internal organs, effectively reducing abdominal pressure and discomfort.

Using imaging guidance for these procedures significantly reduces the risk of complications compared to traditional techniques, ensuring a safer and more comfortable experience for the patient.

Other uses of CT and Ultrasound Guided Biopsy

The most common reason that biopsies are needed is to confirm the presence or absence of malignant cells. The precision of an imaging guided biopsy greatly assists oncologists in the treatment of cancer. Having accurate test results at an early stage is acknowledged as the most important part of cancer treatment strategy.

An Ultrasound or CT guided biopsy can also identify other medical conditions such as:

• Auto immune disease
• Muscle disease
• Infections of connective tissue and blood vessels
• Nerve damage and degeneration
• Transplant rejection
• Male sterility

World Class Diagnostic Imaging Facility

At Optima Diagnostic Imaging, CT and Ultrasound guided biopsies are provided to Los Angeles and area residents on a daily basis. The level of accuracy and the quality of the images produced allows laser precise retrieval of tissue samples with less trauma to the body and greater purity of the tissue sample.