CT and MRI Scans

CT Scan (Computed Tomography or CAT Scan)

State-of-the-art 64 Slice CT imaging is available at AAR Woodbridge Imaging Center


Having access to sophisticated medical technology is vital for accurate diagnosis, treatment planning and patient care. We offer one of the latest innovations – the GE LightSpeed 64-slice VCT scanner. This scanner allows our physicians and technologists to capture whole organs in a second, the heart in 5 beats or go head to toe in 10 seconds. Faster scans means your appointments are quicker, less stressful, and with less radiation for a safer patient experience.

CT (computed tomography), sometimes called a CAT scan, uses special x-ray equipment to obtain many images from different angles. A computer then joins them together to show a cross-section of body tissues and organs. CT imaging is particularly useful because it can show several types of tissue—lung, bone, soft tissue, and blood vessels—with great clarity. Using specialized equipment and expertise to create and interpret CT scans, radiologists can more easily diagnose problems such as cancers, cardiovascular disease, infectious disease, trauma, and musculoskeletal disorders.

AAR’s efforts to limit radiation exposure:

Generally, radiation does from imaging exams are relatively small and the clinical benefit of the exam far outweighs the potential risks. The typical CT is comparable to the radiation exposure from radon gas emitted in the average home. AAR participates in rigorous programs and has taken several steps to ensure our patients receive only the absolute amonts of radiaton necessary to ensure a quality image.

  • All of our radiologists are board-certified and have extensive training and expertise on techniques that minimize radiation exposure to our patients.
  • We adjust the radiation exposure for each CT based on the size of the patient
  • AAR’s CT scanner is accredited by the American College of Radiology, meaning the scanner is calibrated and monitored to ensure the radiation exposure is limited.
  • Our radiologists use ACR Appropriateness Criteria so that the most appropriate imaging exam is prescribed in order to avoid unnecessary exposure to scans that use radiation when other imaging that doesn’t use radiation may better serve for a specific condition.

State-of-the-art  Cardiac CT scans use highly specialized equipment to create cross-sectional images of the heart at an unprecedented speed.

CT Preparation Instructions


Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses radio waves and a strong magnetic field rather than X-rays to provide remarkably clear and detailed pictures of internal organs and tissues. The technique has proven very valuable for the diagnosis of a broad range of conditions in all parts of the body, including cancer, heart and vascular disease, stroke, and joint and musculoskeletal disorders. MRI requires specialized equipment and expertise, which allows evaluation of some body structures that may not be as visible with other imaging methods.

Since MRI can give such clear pictures of soft-tissue structures near and around bones, it is the most sensitive exam for spinal and joint problems. MRI is widely used to diagnose sports-related injuries, especially those affecting the knee, shoulder, hip, elbow, and wrist. Because no radiation exposure is involved, MRI is often the preferred diagnostic tool for examination of the male and female reproductive systems, pelvis and hips, and the bladder.  Cardiovascular MR offers the ability to image the heart in any plane, with the highest resolution and no radiation.

MRI Preparation instructions:

Let the technologist know if:

  • You have any metallic implants such as a pacemaker or surgical clips.
  • You are claustrophobic.
  • You are or may be pregnant.