Imaging Services Manatee Diagnostic Center and Manatee Diagnostic Center for Women perform radiology services using a variety of procedures and equipment. The results of the procedure are then examined by a member of our staff of board certified radiologists and a report is sent to your physician. The list below provides an explanation of the most commonly performed procedures. MRI A non-invasive procedure that uses powerful magnets and radio waves to construct pictures of the body. CT A method of body imaging in which a thin x-ray beam rotates around the patient. Small detectors measure the amount of x-rays that make it through the patient or particular area of interest. Mammography An X-ray picture of the breasts. It is used to detect tumors and cysts and to help differentiate benign (noncancerous) and malignant (cancerous) disease. Ultrasound The use of high-frequency sound waves to create images of organs and systems within the body. Also known as a Sonogram. X-Ray A form of electromagnetic radiation, just like visible light. In a health care setting, x-rays are emitted by a machine as individual "particles" (photons) that pass through the body and then get detected by a sensitive film. Bone Density (DEXA) Designed to check for osteoporosis, a disease that occurs when the bones become thin and weak. A bone density scan measures the strength of an individual's bones and determines the risk of fracture. Nuclear Medicine Involves using radioactive materials to perform body function studies and organ imaging, analyze biologic specimens and to treat, manage, and prevent serious disease. Nuclear medicine allows for early detection that can result in more effective treatments and better prognosis.