Ashtabula County Medical Center | ACMC Pulse | Summer 2018

are capable of three-dimensional (3-D) imaging and directly transferring data and measurements into the patients’ medical record (after review by the radiologist). In addition, ACMC purchased ultrasound software called elastography, which measures the stiffness of tissue in the liver and uses this data to determine the degree of liver fibrosis. This information can, in many cases, eliminate the need for a liver biopsy. In women’s health, ACMC has also committed to providing the community with current services. In 2017 the current digital mammography units were upgraded to tomosynthesis— also referred to as 3-D imaging. Tomosynthesis takes images throughout the breast. It is like a CT scan of the breast, but with a lower x-ray dose. To continue ACMC’s capital plan to bring the latest technology to our community, in 2016 the Imaging Department spent just over $1 million for a fluoroscopy system and a 64-slice CT with fluoroscopy and cardiac angiography technology. The most recent project, just under $1 million, saw the renovation and upgrade of two fully digital x-ray rooms with chest imaging and two fully digital portable x-ray units. These portable x-ray units allow the technologist and the physician to immediately see the image. No film or cassette processing is required. These recommendations for most men are listed by age . Talk with your doctor about what’s right for you. 20 BLOOD PRESSURE: Be screened at least every 2 years. 25 CHOLESTEROL: Be screened every 4 to 6 years. 45 DIABETES: Be screened at least every 3 years (or earlier based on risk factors). 50 COLORECTAL CANCER: Talk with your doctor about screening options. PROSTATE CANCER*: Ask your doctor about screening. 65 ABDOMINAL AORTIC ANEURYSM: Be screened once between ages 65 and 75 if you’ve ever smoked. 70 OSTEOPOROSIS: Start screening (or earlier based on risk factors). *African American men should talk with their doctor at age 45. Sources: American Cancer Society; American Diabetes Association; American Heart Association; National Osteoporosis Foundation; U.S. Preventive Services Task Force 55 LUNG CANCER: Be screened annually based on your history of smoking. KEY SCREENING TESTS: MEN NEED A CT SCAN, MRI, ULTRASOUND OR OTHER DIAGNOSTIC IMAGING TEST? Ask your provider to refer you to ACMC’s Diagnostic Imaging Department for an appointment. Our services are available in Ashtabula, Conneaut or Jefferson by calling 440-997-6590 . ACMC Pulse  • acmchealth.org 11