Radiology Services at UCSF - UCSF Department of Radiology ...

CT-guided procedures
The UCSF Precision Spine and Peripheral Nerve Center has invested in the latest generation of CT technology—
the 64-slice scanner. While most centers only offer guidance using fluoroscopic X-rays, we use real-time computed
tomography to visualize the soft tissue anatomy in three dimensions. With this technology our physicians can precisely
deliver spinal injections to maximize effectiveness and patient safety.
Fast, low-radiation CT scan techniques enable our physicians to monitor the precise placement of needles, catheters
and other devices to alleviate back pain. In addition, the use of CT allows us to accurately diagnose causes of spine
disease during the procedure and thereby deliver optimal treatment for the patient. Our 64-slice CT scanners are
equipped with the latest radiation dose reduction software to cut patient radiation exposure by as much as 80 percent.
CT-guided procedures may be particularly helpful for patients who:
• Have had extensive surgery with hardware that obscures or distorts the usual spinal anatomy
• Have significant osteoarthritis that may hinder access to nerves and other spinal structures
• Have soft tissue abnormalities such as disc herniations, cysts or scarring from prior surgery that are not visualized
using conventional fluoroscopic techniques
Fluoroscopically-guided procedures
The UCSF Precision Spine and Peripheral Nerve Center offers conventional fluoroscopically guided diagnostic spine
procedures, such as myelography, discography and lumbar puncture. Additionally, our fluoroscopy system can be used
simultaneously with our CT scanner in an integrated technique that is very effective and safe for procedures such as
tumor ablation, vertebroplasty, kyphoplasty and sacroplasty.
Magnetic resonance procedures
Using state-of-the-art MRI scanners, the UCSF Precision Spine and Peripheral Nerve Center provides the best diagnostic
magnetic resonance imaging available for the spine, brain, pelvis and extremities.
• MR neurography (magnetic resonance neurography):
We offer an advanced technique known as magnetic resonance neurography, which was developed by UCSF
neuroradiologists and others. MR neurography is useful for diagnosing disorders of the nerves that lie beyond the
spinal canal. The technique can be performed at any time after nerve injury, as unlike electrodiagnostic studies
which usually require a two- to three-week waiting period after abnormalities can be detected.
Safety
Patient safety is the top priority of UCSF’s Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging. We are committed to
maintaining the highest possible standards of patient care and safety, from the moment a test is requested through to
performance and final reporting of an imaging examination. The department is one of the few nationwide that features
a senior faculty member who devotes a substantial proportion of their time to patient safety.
For the latest insights into the safety and benefits of our advanced imaging techniques, please visit the UCSF
Radiology blog at http://blog.radiology.ucsf.edu.