Memorial Hermann Wellness Institute

Imaging & Scan Services

Preventive Imaging Procedures

Memorial Hermann Wellness Institute uses Electron Beam Tomography (EBT) technology to screen for several major illnesses, including heart disease and cancer. It is a simple, fast and non-invasive procedure with minimal radiation exposure in an open-faced and non-claustrophobic system. EBT is the “gold standard” for preventive cardiac screening and is many times faster than the mechanical “spiral” CT scanner.

Heart Scan (Coronary Artery Screening)
A heart scan, using EBT technology, has the ability to detect hidden coronary artery disease before any symptoms have presented. The Heart Scan measures the volume, density, distribution and number of calcified vessels in your heart. The results are interpreted by a board-certified cardiologist and a detailed report may be sent to you and your personal physician. Recommended for middle-aged adults with or without risk factors.

A physician referral is required EXCEPT for men ages 40-65 and women ages 45-70 who have at least one of the following risk factors:

• Family history
• High blood pressure
• LDL Cholesterol > 160 mg/DL
• Diabetes
• Obesity
• Smoking
  

Lung Screening
The lung scan aids in the detection of lung cancer at its earliest stages and is used to identify obstructive pulmonary disease. Recommended for smokers, those with a family history of lung cancer or exposure to other known risk factors associated with lung cancer.
A physician referral is required.

Chest X-Ray
A radiological evaluation of the heart, lungs and chest wall structures used to screen for potential lung disease or cancer. Recommended for smokers.
A physician referral is required.

Bone Density Scan
The bone mineral density scan identifies the relative state of bone loss and aids in predicting fracture risk in patients. Recommended for men and women over 65 and postmenopausal women with one or more risk factors for osteoporosis or who have had a fracture.
A physician referral is required.

Full Body Screening
The full body screening scans the neck, chest (including the heart), abdomen and pelvis. Patients drink barium prior to beginning the scanning process. This procedure produces images that allow a radiologist to evaluate and report on the neck, lungs, liver, spleen, gall bladder, pancreas, spine, kidneys and pelvic organs. A cardiologist evaluates the heart.
A physician referral is required.

Virtual Colonoscopy (Colonography)
The FDA-approved virtual colonoscopy is used to screen for colorectal cancer. Following a minimal preparation, the colon is distended, allowing the EBT scanner to capture digital images of the colon. Recommended for men and women beginning at age 50.
A physician referral is required.

Mammogram
A radiographic screening of the breasts for the early detection of breast cancer.
Recommended for women over the age of 40.

For more information, contact a Wellness Institute representative at 713-448-SCAN (7226).