Sophisticated Imaging for Accurate Diagnosis

Imaging tests are used for diagnosis and to evaluate how treatments are working. At Benefis, we offer the latest imaging approaches performed by a team of board-certified radiologists, imaging technologists, and specialized nurses. We provide accurate results as quickly as possible while ensuring your comfort and safety.  

We offer the region’s most advanced technology. That means your doctor gets results faster, so treatment can begin sooner. Your care team can access diagnostic-quality images electronically anywhere, anytime to give you coordinated, efficient care.

To schedule an appointment, please call (406) 731-8400.

Comprehensive Imaging Services

Imaging is used to diagnose disease or injury, guide treatment and evaluate how treatments are working. We offer a wide variety of imaging procedures.

Routine Radiography

• X-Ray
  • X-Ray is a simple imaging test that results in a 1 dimensional view of a body part, often bones or chest. At Benefis, we utilize a digital system, resulting in less radiation dose than film.
  • Scoliosis and Leg Length Studies
    • Benefis offers stitched imaging such as Scoliosis and Leg length imaging. These services are offered in Medical Office Building #4. If your physician has handed you an order, please bring it with you. These X-rays do not need to be scheduled in advance.
• Fluoroscopy
  • Unlike a standard X-Ray, which provides a single image, fluoroscopy takes multiple X-Rays that are viewed on a monitor as a video. It can be used to guide spine and joint treatments, examine the gastrointestinal tract and other procedures.

Fluoroscopy Prep Instructions

CT Scan or CAT Scan

• CT uses special X-Ray equipment and a specialized computer to create detailed images of various parts of the body. It uses that technology to create cross-sectional pictures. Sometimes, a CT is done with a dye (contrast) that can be an oral solution or IV contrast or both. If you are allergic to iodine or X-ray contrast, please notify your physician.
• CT is used for a variety of procedures, including:
  • Trauma
  • Body imaging
  • Cancer staging
  • Bones fractures
  • Angiography
• We use the latest in dose reduction techniques along with cutting edge technology.

CT Oral Prep Instructions

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

• MRI is a medical test that uses a magnetic field, radio frequency pules and a sophisticated computer to produce cross sectional images of the body. Using no radiation, it uses a powerful magnet to help create images.
  • MRI is used for a variety of reasons, including:
  • Bone and joint injuries
  • Stroke workup
  • Spinal imaging
  • Angiography

We have a wide bore 3T MRI machine in our department. This allows superior detail along with a less claustrophobic experience.

If you have a pacemaker or other implanted device, please notify your physician.

Ultrasound

• Ultrasound uses the transmittal of high-frequency sound waves into the body to produce images, a similar approach as sonar or radar. There is no use of radiation.
• Ultrasound is used for a variety of procedures, including:
  • Pregnancy
  • Pelvic disorders
  • Abdominal disorders
  • Breast abnormalities
  • Vascular imaging

We have an accreditation from the American College of Radiology in Ultrasound, along with an ACR accreditation in breast Ultrasound.

Nuclear Medicine

• In this modality, radioactive material is used to help detect certain medical issues. The radioactive material, which is either swallowed or injected in a vein. The material is absorbed by the body and collects in areas of increased chemical activity, which is seen by special cameras. Risks from the radiation exposure are considered low.
• Nuclear medicine can be used for:
  • Bone injury or infection
  • Thyroid issues
  • Heart function
  • Gallbladder and stomach issues

Positron Emission Tomography (PET or PET/CT)

• PET CT combines nuclear medicine and CT to examine body tissues and organs to diagnose medical conditions. Using the 2 modalities together increases the diagnostic accuracy by combining results from each.
• PET is primarily used for cancer detection and staging.

Nuclear Medicine Prep Instructions

Interventional Radiology (Angiography)

• IR is a Radiology specialty that performs minimally invasive treatments using fluoroscopy for procedure guidance.
• An Interventional Radiologist can use the live X-Ray to guide catheter tubes into certain vessels or organs. They also perform many pain management exams. Depending on the source of the pain, their techniques may be used to diagnose, deliver pain relief, or in some cases, treat the underlying cause.

Mammography Services

Benefis Mammography Services is an excellent choice for all your breast imaging needs. Our mammography and diagnostic imaging services use the latest technologies available. We have been accredited for the last three years by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC).

Mammography is a safe, effective imaging test that uses X-Ray. Screening mammograms are the single best way to detect breast cancer. If a suspicious area is found, or if your doctor has found signs of a breast problem, a diagnostic mammogram will focus on that area. Benefis Mammography Services uses 3D digital mammography (tomosynthesis), which has advantags over the older 2D systems. This type of mammography produces X-ray images from multiple angles to create a clear, 3D reconstruction. We also use a system called computer-aided detection (CAD), which adds an extra layer of scrutiny to the mammography images. We are accredited with the American College of Radiology in Mammographic Imaging Services.

Mammography Prep Instructions

Breast Ultrasound

Ultrasound uses sound waves to make detailed images of the breast on a computer screen. A technologist moves a wand-like instrument over the skin of the breast to perform the test, which should not be uncomfortable. Breast ultrasound is done to examine breast changes such as lumps or cysts or to follow up mammogram imaging. It can also be used as a guide during a needle biopsy.

Breast Biopsy

This process uses a needle or other instrument to remove a small tissue sample from the breast. This tissue is examined in the Laboratory to check for signs of cancer. A stereotactic breast biopsy is done in combination with mammography to target the exact location for the tissue sample. We are accredited with the American College of Radiology in Stereotactic Breast Biopsy imaging services.

Breast MRI

Some women who have a high risk for developing breast cancer may have an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) test. This imaging test may also be used with patients who are newly diagnosed with breast cancer to find the extent of their disease, to evaluate a patient’s response to chemotherapy, and in other specific situations. It is used alongside mammography and breast ultrasound.