Park West Imaging

In 2009, over 20,000 outpatients were referred to Park West Imaging in Pueblo. Developed by Specialty and Sub-Specialty trained Radiologists, their objective is to make diagnostic imaging in Southern Colorado the benchmark for leading imaging centers of the world. The quality of life provided by Southern Colorado allows Park West Imaging to attract the finest professionals in diagnostic imaging.

Technology/Modalities offered by Park West Imaging:

PET/CT

Park West Imaging provides the latest imaging technology for the evaluation of cancer, heart disease and Alzheimer’s with both Positron Emission Tomography (PET) and Computer Tomography (CT) combined in a single, powerful, advanced diagnostic procedure. For our outpatients, it offers the convenience of one exam instead of two, with the combined diagnostic capability of PET and CT technologies for faster, more precise evaluations. PET detects metabolic activity and identifies a disease process before structural changes become apparent. Combined with CT, radiologists can now see detailed images of the size, shape and location of a disease process. The combination of CT renders a 3D anatomical structure, enhancing the image for a more comprehensive diagnosis.

64 Slice CT

Our 64-Slice CT provides 3D renderings of the heart, carotid arteries, brain, cerebral arteries and all peripheral arteries for detection and characterization of plaque. This advanced CT imaging allows the radiologist to clearly visualize cardiac function and captures the entire coronary branch in five seconds, requiring minimal breath holds, making it ideal for nervous patients, fidgety children and those suffering from pulmonary disease or heart failure.

Often CT can preclude the necessity to perform invasive, risky angiography and cardiac catheterization, eliminating the risk of stroke. These clearer, sharper, multi-dimensional views of cardiac and coronary functions provide our radiologists with more critically detailed visual information than ever before, lending to a more comprehensive diagnosis. CT is used to perform the Virtual Colonography, a non-invasive screening method which images the entire colon and has the capability to identify smaller polyps than optical colonoscopy.

3-Tesla MRI

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is an advanced diagnostic test that generates highly detailed images of the body. Unlike many other advanced imaging techniques, MRI does not use radiation (x-rays). Instead, a safe, powerful magnetic field and radiofrequency waves are utilized to generate the diagnostic images.

The Tesla (T) is the unit of strength of the magnetic field. The stronger the magnetic field, the greater the level of detail and contrast in the images. The initial MRI systems (and most open MRI systems today) have a field strength of less than 0.6 T. After introduction in 1982, 1.5 T imaging systems soon became the reference standard for high quality MRI, and remain the most commonly used field strength in hospitals and outpatient settings today. The 3.0 T MRI system utilized at Park West Imaging is the highest field strength widely available for clinical use, and reflects the latest in MRI technology.

The field strength alone is far from the only important variable in producing the highest quality diagnostic images, as is our goal at Park West Imaging. We also employ a large array of gradient coils specifically designed for different parts of the body. These coils help harness the power of the magnet, and ensure the images, upon which accurate diagnosis is dependent, are of exceptional quality and clarity. The 3T MRI is used in Orthopedic and Sports Imaging as well as Neurological Imaging.

Women's Imaging

Park West Imaging always provides the Gold standard in Women’s Imaging. Our radiologists stay on the forefront of women’s imaging technology, providing soft-padded, Digital Mammography, 3D/4D Ultrasound, Ultrasound biopsy, QCT Bone Densitometry and Breast MRI with available Breast MRI biopsy utilizing a 3-Tesla magnet, which provides incomparable imagery. Park West Imaging also participates in a Breast Health Program in partnership with Parkview Medical Center, utilizing a Nurse Navigator to expedite diagnosis of questionable mammographies to within five days rather than having to wait months. For the convenience of our patients, Park West Imaging provides on-site BRCA testing for those who have a family history of breast cancer.

While proud of their legacy in Southern Colorado, Park West Imaging is always keeping an eye on the future and working to empower referrers with the best that modern radiology has to offer. To that end, they have gone to great lengths to create a "Center of Excellence" and to fluidly implement new technologies as they become available.