About Us
The St. Elizabeth Healthcare Imaging Centers offer comprehensive outpatient services at three convenient locations throughout Northern Kentucky: Alexandria, Edgewood, and Hebron.
Providing high field MRI and MRA, Open MRI, CT scans and ultrasound, we offer state of the art technology for your imaging needs. Our High Definition 3.0T MRI system – the only one in Northern Kentucky – makes it possible to increase exam speed and image resolution, so your scans are faster and more comfortable, and you receive a more accurate diagnosis from your physician.
We provide pre-certification and authorization services when permitted for all of our centers.
Types of Imaging
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is the most advanced technology available to view inside the human body in 3-D. Using a magnetic field and pulse wave energy; we can take pictures of organs and structures inside the body.
Getting an MRI is a simple procedure. There is no need to change into a gown as long as your regular clothes do not contain metal (zippers, snaps, clasps, etc.).
Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA)
Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA) provides a detailed analysis of your vascular system and major blood vessels, with technology similar to an MRI. Our centers specialize in imaging vascular structures of the brain, neck, abdomen and lower legs. In some cases you may require an injection of a contrast material to help certain parts of the body show up better.
Like MRI, getting an MRA is a simple procedure, and you may wear your own clothes as long as they contain no metal (zippers, snaps, clasps, etc.).
Important Information for MRI/MRA
MRI and MRA are safe procedures, which usually require no special preparation or eating restrictions. However, exams of the liver or gallbladder require that you do not eat or drink for four hours prior to the exam.
It is very important to arrive 15 minutes prior to your appointment so you can complete the necessary paperwork.
We will ask you a series of questions, and it is very important that you notify us if you have any of the following:
- Aneurysm clip
- Aortic clip
- Bone stimulator
- Cardiac or renal stent
- Eye implant
- Fractured bones with rods, screws, pins or metal plates
- Harrington rod
- Heart valve
- Hearing (cochlear/staples) implant
- Implanted deliberator
- Insulin pump
- I.U.D.
- Joint replacement
- Pacemaker
- Renal impairment or kidney problems
- Shrapnel
- Wire sutures
Important Eye Information
Some metallic objects can be moved or dislodged during your MRI due to the strong magnet. This can result in serious eye injury. If you have had an eye injury at any time, in which a metal fragment forcefully struck the eye, please let our staff know. We will arrange a screening X-ray or CT to identify any metal fragments.
Do you now or have you ever had:
- Metal in your eyes?
- Injury to your eyes?
- Previous eye surgery?
Important Information about Kidneys
The dye that is given to patients who are to have a MRA or MRI can be dangerous to those who have renal impairment or kidney problems.
Do you have any renal impairment or kidney problems, acute or chronic?
If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, please call the St. Elizabeth Imaging Centers at least 48 hours (to allow for x-rays and lab work) before your appointment at (859) 341-3333 or (800) 597-3501.
Computed Tomography (CT)
Computed Tomography (CT), more commonly referred to as a "cat" scan, is an advanced radiology procedure using x-rays and a super computer to produce detailed cross-sectional images of the body's internal organs. CT images are much more sensitive than ordinary x-rays and have the unique ability to show a combination of soft tissue, bone and blood vessels.
Important Information for CT
CT sometimes requires preparation before your test and can vary depending upon the purpose of the scan. You may be required to refrain from eating or drinking for a specified amount of time prior to your test.
Certain types of CT scans require contrast material to be administered orally, intravenously (IV) or both. If an IV contrast is required, an additional blood test may also be required prior to administration.
Ultrasound
An ultrasound uses reflected sound waves to produce a picture of the organs and other structures in the body. Occasionally a specialized ultrasound is ordered for a detailed evaluation of a specific organ.
Very Important!
Please notify us prior to any requested procedure if you believe that you might be pregnant.