The Methodist Hospital System. Leading Medicine
The Methodist Hospital System. Leading Medicine

Eddy Scurlock Stroke Center

Diagnostic Services

As part of the Center’s focus on the acute stage of stroke, several state–of–the–art diagnostic devices allow physicians to quickly pinpoint the precise location of a stroke and the extent of damage. Some of these include CAT scans, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Angiography, and Carotid Duplex Scanning.

A large majority of the diagnosis is established by the initial interview and hands–on assessment. In addition, there are a number of diagnostic exams that help find the cause of the brain injury. These tests are typically completed within the first 24 hours of your stay:

CT Scan

A Computerized Tomography (CT) Scan is a non–invasive test that uses a narrow x–ray beam to differentiate body tissues or structures. By using contrast media (dye) the interpreter can determine where a breakdown has occurred in the brain. On the other hand, a CT scan without contrast allows the interpreter to view blood, brain tissue or fluid. It is extremely important that allergies to contrast media, dye or seafood be expressed. This test is typically performed in the Emergency Department (ED). During the test, you will be asked to lie quietly on a flat narrow table while the table moves through a large scanning tube. Estimated testing time – 15 minutes.

MRI

A Magnetic Resonance Image (MRI) is similar to a CT scan in providing a view of the brain and sometimes required the use of contrast media. Unlike the CT scan, the MRI uses radio frequency instead of x–ray and requires more time in the scanning process. This test provides better images for evaluating strokes and brain lesions. Patients with implanted metals (i.e. pacemaker, surgical clips, metal in eyes or joint replacements) cannot be tested. During the test, you will be asked to lie quietly on a flat narrow table while the table moves through a large scanning tube. Estimated testing time – 45 minutes.

MRA

A Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA) is usually performed at the time of the MRI. Rather than viewing structures and lesions of the brain, this scan is used to evaluate the vascular arterial structures of the brain and neck. By using this scan, the interpreter can identify narrowing or occluded arteries. Patients with implanted metals cannot be tested using this method. During the test, you will be asked to lie quietly on a flat narrow table while the table moves through a large scanning tube. Estimated testing time – 30 minutes.

2D Echo

A two dimensional echocardiogram (2D Echo or heart ultrasound) is a non–invasive test in which the interpreter can evaluate the structures and functions of the heart. You will be positioned slightly on your left side. Estimated testing time – 30 minutes.

Carotid Dopplers

The Carotid dopplers (ultrasound) evaluate the flow of blood through the major blood vessels in the neck. This test can detect vessel narrowing. You will be positioned on your back with the head of the bed elevated. Estimated testing time – 30 minutes.