Radiology and Diagnostic Imaging Services at UPMC
The Department of Radiology at UPMC offers state-of-the-art diagnostic imaging services that include MRI, X-ray, ultrasound, and CT scans. These high-tech tools help doctors understand your condition and how to treat it.
At UPMC, our Consultant Radiologists and highly trained team of radiographers use innovative equipment and techniques to provide you with a range of diagnostic services.
Make a Diagnostic Appointment
Ask your GP for a referral and contact a diagnostics expert at a UPMC location near you.
What Conditions Can Radiology Tests Diagnose?
Any time a doctor needs to look at the inside of your body, they may order imaging tests. These tests may rule out certain conditions or diseases or help identify them.
We provide imaging services for a range of injuries and diseases:
- Cancer
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- Orthopaedic injuries
- Respiratory disease
- Sports
Specialised Imaging Services at UPMC
Diagnostic tests help doctors determine the exact cause of your illness or discomfort. At UPMC, we offer a wide range of imaging services.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
An MRI is a painless scan of part of the body. It works by using magnetic resonance imaging. It can be noisy, so you may wear headphones while having your scan.
Some medical devices (pacemakers, cochlear implants, artificial limbs) may prevent you from having an MRI. In some cases, you may need an x-ray before an MRI to make sure it's safe for you to enter the scanner.
You can receive an MRI scan at the following locations:
Ultrasound
Ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves that travel through soft tissues. A technician holds a probe over a particular area of the body. The ultrasound “echoes" back when it hits a more solid surface, such as a gallstone.
A screen will display pictures of the echoes. The picture is constantly updated so the scan can show movement as well as structure. The probe allows for views from different angles.
You can receive an ultrasound at the following locations:
X-ray
An X-ray is a painless imaging technique that produces a two-dimensional picture. Doctors use them to diagnose broken bones, joint abnormalities, and certain illnesses.
Often, an X-ray is enough to diagnose a problem. If it's not, your doctor may order a CT scan to take a 3-D look.
You can receive an x-ray at the following locations:
Computerised Tomography (CT scan)
A CT (computerised tomography) scan is a painless, specialised X-ray. It looks like a giant ring that you lie inside. The X-ray machine rotates around the body and takes pictures.
Doctors use CT scans to detect tumours, abcesses, or abnormal blood vessels. A CT scan before an operation may pinpoint the exact location of an abnormality.
You can receive a CT scan at the following locations:
PET Scan
A positron emission tomography (PET) scan is an imaging test that allows your doctor to check for diseases in your body. The scan uses a special dye containing radioactive tracers. These tracers are either swallowed, inhaled, or injected into a vein in your arm depending on what part of the body is being examined.
You can receive a PET scan at the following locations:
Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA scan)
Doctors use the DEXA (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) scan to measure bone density. It produces pictures of the spine and hips to measure bone loss. Doctors use it to diagnose osteoporosis and related bone problems.
A DEXA scan is quick and painless. You don't need to do anything special to prepare for it.
You can receive a DEXA scan at the following location:
Our Consultants
- Dr. Margot Brannigan
- Dr. Stephen Burke
- Dr. Kieran Carroll
- Dr. Ian Crosbie
- Dr. Anthony Cullen
- Dr. Michael Farrell
- Dr. Ian MG Kelly
- Dr. Ian Murphy
- Dr. Conor O'Riordan
Where Can I Get Imaging Services?
UPMC offers imaging services across a range of locations, including Waterford, Kilkenny, and Dublin (at our UPMC Sports Surgery Clinic).
- UPMC Whitfield Hospital
- UPMC Aut Even Hospital
- UPMC Sports Medicine Clinic at SETU Arena (formerly WIT Arena)
Learn more about travelling to UPMC for care.
Why Choose UPMC Radiology Services?
The doctors and other medical staff at our Radiology Department are experts in their field and they have advanced training in the latest imaging technology. The radiology team is committed to quick turnaround when it comes to reporting results.
- We have state-of-the-art diagnostic tools: Options include X-ray, MRI, CT, and ultrasound which ensure a good patient experience and excellent image quality.
- Advanced CT scanning equipment: Available at UPMC Whitfield Hospital in Waterford and UPMC Aut Even Hospital in partnerships with Affidea.
- Swift scheduling and results: Our radiology services include fast scheduling and quick reporting.
Additionally, we are long term partners of the HSE (Health Service Executive) and private insurers. We work diligently to ensure everyone has equal access to high quality healthcare delivered in a timely fashion.
