Imaging and Diagnostics Lab Center in Westwood, New Jersey
At Pascack Valley Medical Center, we provide an array of diagnostic medical imaging services to help you stay on top of your health. All of our physicians, doctors, and nurses are expertly trained to administer and interpret various imaging tests. Our goal is to bring you fast, accurate results so you can begin a comprehensive treatment plan specifically tailored to your health needs.
Our Diagnostic Imaging Services
Pascack Valley Medical Center is the ideal choice for imaging and radiology needs, offering comprehensive, high-quality outpatient services. With the latest in advanced technology and a focus on creating a convenient, comfortable environment for patients, we make it easy for your patients to provide exceptional care. Our accessible location further ensures that coordinating patient care is both efficient and seamless.
Our specialists offer a wide range of imaging tests to bring you the most accurate information possible. We offer:
- Bone density scans (DEXA)
- Computerized tomography (CT)
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
- 3D mammography
- Nuclear medicine
- Ultrasounds
- X-Rays
All of our radiologists are board-certified and they hold subspecialty certifications in many areas of imaging including women’s imaging, pediatrics, neuroradiology, cardiac CT, cardiac MRI, vascular ultrasound, nuclear medicine and musculoskeletal radiology.
We are also accredited by the American College of Radiology for mammography, MRI and CT. This distinction is granted to institutions that adhere to ACR Practice Guidelines and Technical Standards following a comprehensive assessment. In addition, the NJ Department of Health and Senior Services inspects our imaging center annually, while most independent imaging facilities are inspected just once upon licensure.
Learn more about our tests
Bone density scans
Bone density scanning, also known as dual-energy, x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) or bone densitometry, is an enhanced form of x-ray technology used to measure bone mineral density (BMD) and loss of bone mass. DXA is most often performed on the lower spine and hips. However, the entire body is sometimes scanned. Body scans are painless, non-invasive procedures with great accuracy in detecting the presence and degree of lost bone mass.
We offer state-of-the-art bone scan testing to detect the presence of osteoporosis and other conditions that cause bone weakness. Our specialists can effectively diagnose and treat osteoporosis to prevent painful bone fractures and other medical problems that can result from accidents and falls due to bone fragility.
CT scans
CT scanning is a painless, non-invasive testing method widely used by doctors because it provides the most revealing images of internal organs, bones, soft tissues and blood vessels. Computed tomography (CT) combines special x-ray technology and sophisticated computer technology to create high-speed, cross-section images of the inner workings of the human body. The images are electronically reconstructed to create two and three-dimensional illustrations that can reveal a wide array of medical conditions.
Our CT scans include:
- 4D perfusion scans
- Advanced cardiac and coronary artery imaging
- Advanced post-surgical imaging
- Brain scans that show cerebral blood flow
- CT scans and cinematic rendering of pancreatic masses
- Low dose pediatric scanning
- Neuro and trauma imaging, including whole body evaluations after trauma
MRI
MRIs are used in the diagnosis of many, varied conditions and are often requested by physicians to obtain detailed information not already provided by other imaging technologies. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) employs strong electromagnets, radio frequency waves and powerful computers to generate two and three-dimensional images of the body’s organs, tissues and bones. Unlike x-rays and CT scans, MRI technology does not require the use of radiation.
Images are gathered using a large, tube-shaped magnet that creates a strong magnetic field around the patient. A radio frequency coil is placed over the body part that is to be imaged. The magnetic field and radio frequency waves alter the alignment of hydrogen protons within the body. Using signals emitted from the protons, computers reconstruct images of the body part to be studied.
Mammography
Mammography is a specialized imaging technique used to examine the breast for early detection of breast cancer and other breast-related conditions. It utilizes low-dose x-rays to capture detailed images of the breast tissue. Mammograms can detect tumors, abnormal growths, or calcifications that may not be felt during a physical exam. The procedure can be performed as a routine screening or for diagnostic purposes when specific breast concerns arise. Early detection through mammography increases the chances of successful treatment for breast cancer and other conditions.
Nuclear medicine
Our comprehensive nuclear medicine services include a wide range of diagnostic imaging and functional studies, such as:
- 3 phase bone scan, bone scan SPECT, bone scan whole body
- Brain scan
- Gallium scan, gallium SPECT
- Gastric emptying
- GI bleeding scan
- HIDA scan, HIDA w/CCK scan
- In-111 WBC
- Liver scan
- Lung VQ scan
- Meckles scan
- MUGA scan
- Myocardial perfusion scans (including Lexiscan, exercise, and 2-day scan)
- Octreotide scan
- Parathyroid scan
- Renal scan, renal scan w/ LASIX
- Sentinel node (lymph node)
- Thallium scan
- Thyroid uptake and scan
Ultrasound
Like the x-ray, CT scan and MRI, ultrasound testing is used by the medical community to investigate and diagnose an array of medical conditions. However, there is no radiation exposure associated with ultrasound testing. Ultrasound technology employs high-frequency sound waves to create images of organs and systems within the body. An ultrasound machine sends out sound waves that reflect off body structures. A computer receives the reflected waves and uses them to create pictures.
To conduct an ultrasound, a clear, water-based conducting gel is applied to the skin over the area to be examined to aid transmission of the sound waves. A handheld probe called a transducer is moved over the area being examined.
Laboratory services
Our full-service clinical and anatomic pathology laboratory is equipped to handle many categories of tests, including:
- Chemistry – The study of chemical entities, such as drugs and their interactions.
- Coagulation – The process of how blood clots to stop bleeding.
- Hematology – The study of blood, its diseases, and related disorders.
- Microbiology – The examination of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
- Serology – The study and examination of blood serum to detect antibodies and diagnose infections.
- Transfusion Medicine – The medical practice of administering blood transfusions to patients.
Our pathology lab services are accredited by the The Joint Commission and licensed by the New Jersey State Department of Health. They are also certified by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) under its Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) program. These accreditations and certifications are your assurance that we consistently adhere to the strictest quality control standards for every test we perform.
Our laboratory is located just behind the main lobby. We offer plenty of free parking to make your visit as convenient as possible. Walk-ins accepted Sunday through Saturday 7:30am to 5pm. For questions, please call (201) 781-1134.
Imaging Center location and scheduling
At Pascack Valley Medical Center, we prioritize creating a patient-friendly, stress-free atmosphere. We offer convenient and free valet and self-parking, along with a Central Scheduling office that ensures hassle-free scheduling for outpatient imaging services.
Our dedicated Pre-Certification, Insurance Verification, and Pre-Registration team collaborates with patients, their doctors, and insurance companies to verify benefits and obtain pre-authorization for scheduled tests and procedures. Additionally, our caring staff is committed to making each patient’s visit as pleasant as possible. Patients can easily pre-check in and access their medical records through Pascack Valley Medical Center MyChart, and we also provide weekend hours for added convenience.
The Radiology Department is located on the first floor of the West Building. To schedule a diagnostic test or outpatient procedure, call the Central Scheduling Office at 201-781-1400