men’s health

Services for Men

Ultrasound Gold Seed Placement

Prostate Artery Embolization

A prostate artery embolization is an IR treatment that improves lower urinary tract symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate gland (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia). During the procedure, an interventional radiologist guides a Foley catheter into the vessels that supply blood to your prostate and injects tiny particles to reduce the blood supply. After the procedure, the prostate will shrink, reducing symptoms.

Prostate MRI

A prostate MRI uses a magnetic field of radio wave energy to produce images of the structures within the prostate gland. This procedure is mainly used to evaluate the extent of prostate cancer or to help diagnose infection or abnormalities. Some exams use an endorectal wire (thin wire covered in latex) inserted into the rectum.

Ultrasound Gold Seed Placement

Gold Seed Markers are tiny metal spheres, coils, or cylinders placed near a tumor to help guide radiation beams. The placement of these markers typically occurs after a rectal exam. During this procedure, an ultrasound probe is introduced into the rectum in order to examine the prostate. By adding a needle through the probe, the radiologist inserts the Gold Seed Markers. This procedure is usually performed for intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT).

SpaceOar

For prostate cancer patients, SpaceOAR hydrogel rectal spacers provide a buffer between the prostate and the rectum––which can reduce the side effects of radiation therapy. With the guidance of an ultrasound, the radiologist administers the hydrogel, which solidifies within 10 seconds and remains for three months.

Ultrasound Hernia

To diagnose a groin hernia, a radiologist may use a non-invasive ultrasound procedure. The precision of this imaging helps to speed up the diagnosis and, therefore, procedure and recovery time.

Symptoms

Groin hernia symptoms include a bulge in the groin area and pain or pressure in the groin that worsens with bending, coughing, or lifting.

Risk Factors

Groin hernias impact men more often than women and tend to occur later in life although they can happen at any age. Smoking and family history also increase risk.

Before Your Exam

Before an ultrasound hernia, wear loose fitting clothing and prepare to lie on your back during the procedure.

Time required for your exam

This procedure typically takes between 15 and 30 minutes.

Cardiac CT

A cardiac CT takes a 3-D model of the entire heart and helps a doctor evaluate issues in the arteries, with the aorta, or problems with the heart’s valves and functions. During the exam, you will lie still in the tunnel-like CT machine. Your radiologist may insert a contrast dye or ask you to hold your breath for a few seconds and will monitor your heart rate throughout the exam.

Symptoms

Symptoms of cardiovascular disease can include heartburn, tiredness, weakness, shortness of breath, nausea and vomiting, coughing, heart palpitations, or back or jaw pain.

Risk Factors

Risk factors can include cholesterol, sedentary lifestyle, smoking, being overweight, high blood pressure, diabetes, and a family history of heart disease.

Before Your Exam

Before a cardiac CT, talk to your doctor about any medications and follow his or her advice on which you can still take. Refrain from eating or drinking several hours beforehand, especially caffeine. Prepare to lie down during the exam and wear comfortable clothing.