Imaging & Radiology at Clear Lake Hospital

A diagnostic imaging procedure that uses a combination of x-rays and computer technology to produce cross-sectional images (often called slices) of the body. A CT scan shows detailed images of any part of the body, including the bones, muscles and organs. CT scans may be performed to aide in a patient's diagnosis. Tumors, internal bleeding and internal injuries may be better visualized through the use of CT.

We offer the following CT scans:

• CT Scan - 64 Slice Low-Dose

Uses magnetic fields and radio frequencies to produce detailed pictures of organs, soft tissues and bones. Unlike X-rays or CT scans, MRIs do not use ionizing radiation. We offer the following best-in-class MRI machines:

•  3 Tesla MRI

•  3 Tesla Wide-Bore MRI

•  1.5 Tesla Wide-Bore

A mammogram is a breast X-ray that can show small, early stage cancers. We offer the following screenings:

• 3D screening mammogram 
• Diagnostic mammogram
• Bone Density Scan

A physician order for your screening mammogram is not required. Saturday appointments are available. Learn more about the Houston Methodist Breast Care Center at Clear Lake.

Nuclear medicine — uses small amounts of radioactive materials to examine organ function and structure. Positron emission tomography (PET) is a type of nuclear medicine that uses radioactive materials, a special camera and computer to evaluate organ and tissue functions. Tests include:

• Bone scan - diagnoses bone diseases, infections or injuries
• Brain scan - evaluates brain disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease, seizures, tumors and strokes
• DaTscan - SPECT- brain imaging to assist in the evaluation of adult patients with suspected Parkinsonian syndromes
• Hepatobiliary scan - identifies gallbladder disorders and bile duct obstructions
• Lung ventilation and perfusion scan (VQ scan) - measures air and blood flow in and out of the lungs
• Lymphoscintigraphy - evaluates the lymphatic system and identifies lymph nodes for removal
• Octreoscan - whole-body scans that identify rare neuroendocrine tumors
• Renal scan - evaluates Kidney blood flow and function
• Parathyroid scan - identifies abnormal parathyroid glands that cause hyperparathyroidism

Positron emission tomography (PET) is a type of nuclear medicine that uses radioactive materials, a special camera and computer to evaluate organ and tissue functions. Our PET/CT uses innovative software to produce highly accurate scans rapidly, a critical advantage because longer scans increase the chance of patient movement which can interfere with image quality. The table moves in a single continuous motion through the scan, which reduces patient movement compared to the stop-and-start motion of traditional scanners. This allows for less exposure to radiation and fewer retakes. 

The types of PET scans we offer:

• FDG F-18 - most common PET scan which can detect brain disorders (including brain tumors, memory disorders and seizures), cancer and central nervous system disorders
• Axumin (fluciclovine F-18) - this scan can achieve early detection of recurrent prostate cancer after surgery or radiation
• NETSPOT Ga-68 - this scan can locate the smaller neuroendocrine tumors that do not show up on a typical FDG F-18 PET scan

• X-ray
• Ultrasound
• Echocardiogram
• Mammography
• Bone Density Testing
• Fluoroscopy
• Barium X-ray
• Angiography
• Myelogram
• Interventional radiology