Radiology centers in the Seacoast Region
We know uncertainty about your health can be difficult, so we aim to deliver detailed results as quickly as possible.
Portsmouth Regional Hospital and its affiliated imaging centers offer personalized and compassionate care. If you have a medical issue, we work to give you a clear picture of what's causing it.
Advanced medical imaging services
The board-certified radiologists at our facility use the latest imaging technology to identify, examine and treat a wide range of conditions.
Diagnostic imaging tests
We have been recognized by the American College of Radiology (ACR) for excellence in mammography, computerized tomography (CT) scans, nuclear medicine, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, breast biopsies, breast MRI scans and breast ultrasounds.
For your convenience, we offer same-day or next-day availability for many of our diagnostic procedures.
CT scans
CT scans are a medical imaging method that uses X-rays to generate detailed, cross-sectional images of the body. These image "slices" are used to detect broken bones, cancers, blood clots, signs of heart disease and internal bleeding, as well as to guide biopsies.
We offer some of the most advanced CT diagnostic imaging technologies in the region, which are operated by specialists with national CT certification. Our innovative tools include 64-slice CT scanning and a wide-opening scanner with tumor localization technology. Used with our radiation planning system, these scans can simulate treatment in 3D, which enables a high degree of accuracy.
MRI scans
MRI scans are noninvasive procedures that use magnetic fields to create pictures of organs and structures inside the body. They help physicians diagnose a range of health conditions and internal injuries, as well as determine if medicines or treatments are working properly.
We are one of the few hospitals in the state to offer 3T wide-bore MRI scans. This innovative system enables high-speed, high-resolution imaging of the body. Our MRI scan technology combines a more spacious environment with speed and exceptional performance. It produces high-resolution images and helps reduce anxiety if you feel claustrophobic during a traditional MRI scan.
With a high-resolution MRI, a radiologist can see body structures clearly. The 3T MRI scan assists in diagnosing medical conditions affecting many areas of the body, including:
- Abdominal area
- Arteries
- Brain
- Breast tissue
- Pelvic area
- Prostate area
- Small joints, such as the wrists, elbows, hands and feet
- Spinal cord
- Veins
If you are pregnant or have a pacemaker, cochlear implant or surgically implanted metal clip, we don't advise having an MRI scan.
Positron emission tomography (PET) scans
PET scans use small amounts of radioactive material, called radiotracers, to detect molecular activity in the body. This imaging method helps our doctors evaluate how well the organs and tissues are working. It also assists us in the diagnosis of many illnesses, including cancers, heart disease and neurological conditions.
We can merge PET and CT scans for even greater detail and accuracy. This combined approach offers a high standard of care for the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. It works to capture images of how the body's metabolism changes as it deals with actively growing cancer cells.
Ultrasounds
Also known as sonography, ultrasounds use high-frequency sound waves to create video images of the body's soft tissue areas.
We offer endoscopic, echocardiogram and obstetric ultrasounds, which use conventional, 3D and 3D color technology. Ultrasounds are used to examine internal organs, including the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, thyroid gland and reproductive systems. They also help guide certain procedures, like needle biopsies.
Our diagnostic specialists also perform carotid ultrasound exams to examine blood flow and potential blockages. This test may be ordered to diagnose a murmur in your neck, a stroke, vertigo or headaches.
X-rays and fluoroscopy
X-rays use small doses of radiation to create pictures of the inside of the body. They are especially helpful for bone fractures and joint injuries, but they can also be used to:
- Diagnose heart and large blood vessel problems
- Find an infection
- Locate the cause of an intestinal obstruction
- Look for fluid in the lungs
- Pinpoint tumors
Fluoroscopy is a type of X-ray procedure that shows real-time, continuous images of the body on a monitor. It is used to diagnose and treat a variety of health conditions by displaying the movement of a body part, medical instrument or dye through the body.
Most X-ray procedures don't require an appointment, but you will need a signed order from your doctor.
Breast imaging capabilities
To detect cancer and other conditions as early as possible, we are committed to offering high-quality breast screening services, such as:
- 3D mammograms
- Bone density testing
- Breast MRI scans
- Breast ultrasounds
- Image-guided breast biopsies
Interventional radiology
With interventional radiology, many conditions that once required surgery can now be treated without it. Our skilled doctors use minimally invasive, image-guided procedures to diagnose and treat diseases in nearly every organ system. Compared to traditional surgery, interventional radiology may lead to less pain and a shorter recovery.
To schedule an appointment, or to learn more about our services, call (603) 559-4190. If you already have an appointment, you can register online in advance to save time.
How to prepare for your imaging procedure
We want to make the day of your visit as convenient and comfortable as possible. Below, you can review our imaging process and requirements.
About our medical imaging process
You will receive specific information about preparing for your procedure when we schedule your appointment. For the most accurate results from your procedure, follow all instructions provided. If you did not receive instructions, or if you have any questions, contact your doctor's office and ask to speak to a nurse.
On the day of your procedure, we ask that you check in at the appropriate registration desk 20 minutes before your appointment. You will be asked to review and sign documents during this time.
Items to bring with you
Upon arrival, you should have and present:
- All active insurance cards
- Complete list of medications you currently take
- Photo identification
- Written order from your doctor
- Your Social Security number
You will receive specific information about preparing for your procedure when we schedule your appointment. For the most accurate results from your procedure, follow all instructions provided. If you did not receive instructions, or if you have any questions, contact your doctor's office and ask to speak to a nurse.
On the day of your procedure, we ask that you check in at the appropriate registration desk 20 minutes before your appointment. You will be asked to review and sign documents during this time.
Upon arrival, you should have and present:
- All active insurance cards
- Complete list of medications you currently take
- Photo identification
- Written order from your doctor
- Your Social Security number
What is an MRI scan?
Learn about what an MRI scan is and how we can use it to diagnose a variety of medical conditions.