Radiology

At Torrance Family Care, we perform a wide range of diagnostic exams to help detect internal conditions throughout the body. These exams are performed in our on-site lab for unmatched convenience from a center you can trust. In most cases, results are available right away so that your diagnosis and subsequent treatment plan can be developed as quickly as possible.

Digital X-Rays

X-rays are one of the most commonly performed diagnostic procedures, used to detect a wide variety of conditions in nearly every area of the body. Digital x-rays are performed similarly to conventional x-rays, but use a special imaging detector that "reads" the body part rather than exposing it on film, like the way pictures are taken with a digital camera.
Digital x-rays allow for faster results and delivery to other doctors, as the images can be viewed on a computer rather than having to send the actual film. X-rays taken in our on-site lab allow for immediate results without the hassle of having to visit another facility.
This technique also exposes patients to less radiation, a minor risk involved with conventional x-rays. The speed and safety of digital x-rays make them the preferred type of imaging test for most patients at Torrance Family Family Care.

Abdominal Ultrasound

Ultrasound imaging is frequently used to help physicians diagnose and treat potential conditions within the abdominal area. Unlike other ionizing-type wave imaging systems, ultrasound is captured in real time allowing both the technician and patient to view the results immediately while the machine is imaging. Some abdominal issues that can be diagnosed through ultrasound usage are:

• Abnormal Liver Function
• Aneurysm of the Aorta
• IGall Stones or Kidney Stones
• Distention or Pain in the Abdomen
• Enlarged Abdominal Organs

Additionally, a Doppler Ultrasound technique may be utilized to observe the blood flow of the region explicitly. This may help determine the existence of tumor angiogenesis or plaque formation on vessels near the organs of the area.
The procedure requires a soft gel to be spread across the area to be observed which will help the sound waves travel between the machine and the body. The actual imaging itself is completely painless, but if the area to be imaged was tender beforehand some discomfort may ensue.

Carotid Ultrasound

Carotid ultrasound is a diagnostic procedure that creates images from sound waves and is used to examine the two carotid arteries in the neck. This painless procedure is often performed to identify any plaque or other abnormalities within the arteries that may clog the passage and lead to a stroke or other serious complications.
This test may be performed regularly, especially for patients over the age of 55, or if your doctor suspects you may be at risk for a stroke. A carotid ultrasound usually lasts 15 to 30 minutes and the images can be viewed in real time on the screen as well as analyzed later by your doctor.

Venous Ultrasound

Also known as a lower extremity ultrasound, a venous ultrasound is used to detect blood clots in the legs that may cause conditions such as deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. This procedure can identify narrowed or blocked arteries or veins, clotting or faulty valves, and is essential in achieving successful vein treatment. It is most often performed on patients with leg swelling and varicose and spider veins.
While many diseased leg veins are visible on the skin in the form of varicose or spider veins, many patients may experience significant vein reflux that can only be detected through ultrasound imaging. A venous ultrasound can show a thorough, detailed image of the veins, along with the direction of blood flow to help accurately diagnose vascular conditions.