Neurology Services
For quality neurology services (the branch of medicine that deals with the study and treatment of nervous system disorders) you can turn to Mat-Su Regional Medical Center.
We offer a wide range of services for patients with disorders of the brain, spinal cord and nervous system. We can treat a wide range of conditions associated with the nervous system, including epilepsy, stroke, chronic pain syndromes, memory problems, nerve and muscle disorders, headaches and movement disorders such as tremors and Parkinson's disease.
Two commonly used tests to diagnose neurological disorders are:
Electroencephalography (EEG) is a test that measures brain-wave activity (brain function). A physician may order this test to check for brain seizures or other brain-related problems. For this test, small metal disks (electrodes) are attached to the scalp with glue, water-based gel or paste. During the test, waveforms appear on a screen or paper that will later be studied to assess brain function. This test can detect conditions such as seizures and help diagnose stroke and other brain-related injuries.
Nerve conduction studies (NCS) and Electromyography (EMG) are tests that measure muscle and nerve functions. In most cases, both tests are performed. NCS is often done first. During NCS, mild electrical currents are applied to the skin to see how quickly impulses travel between nerves. EMG will assess muscle function. To do this, a fine needle is placed under the skin and into the muscle being tested. The needle allows the electrical activity in the muscles to be measured; however, no electrical currents are applied with the needle. During each test, wavy lines (waveforms) appear on a screen or paper to indicate how well nerves and muscles are working.
It can detect abnormal muscle and nerve electrical activity for many diseases and conditions, including neuropathies (nerve diseases), myopathies (muscle diseases), focal neuropathies such as pinched nerves and other focal nerve injuries in the arms and legs. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) commonly known as Lou Gehrig's disease, is another disorder that can only be diagnosed with EMG/NCS.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computerized tomography (CT) are available at Mat-Su Regional Medical Center. These tests are used for faster and more accurate diagnosis of organic brain and spinal cord diseases such as tumors, bleeding and infections.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create cross-sectional images of your head, body, muscles and blood flow. Because an MRI provides a clear view of internal organs and tissues, it helps physicians diagnose injuries and other health conditions much faster than with other technologies. For patients who have pacemakers or implantable cardioverter defibrillators, a computed tomography (CT) scan may be a safer imaging tool. (The devices may malfunction during an MRI scan).
Computerized tomography (CT) creates detailed images of your body's internal organs using X-rays with computer technology. The doughnut-shaped scanner uses radiation to create cross-sectional images, or "slices," that help physicians detect tumors, heart disease or internal injuries or bleeding. A CT scan may require that you not eat or drink if you have to drink a contrast liquid—which helps healthcare providers see body structures more clearly—or have a contrast dye injected before the test. The exam usually lasts less than an hour, including any preparations, though the actual scan may only last a minute or two.
Nuclear Medicine offers brain perfusion studies. This can augment the physical characteristic changes seen with CT and MRI with physiological imaging showing brain function. Our use of SPECT/CT fusion imaging enhances the accuracy of the physiological imaging with the resolution of CT, all in one image.
- Nuclear medicine uses tiny amounts of radioactive materials that are introduced into the patient's body by injection, swallowing or inhalation. Special cameras that work with computers detect the radioactive materials to provide sharp images of the body.
Our invasive procedures include myelograms, and that they are procedures that are performed totally within the radiology department. (Also known as a spinal tap) The department has its own specialty nurse that manages the procedure from beginning to end.
If you're experiencing any of these symptoms or disorders, it's good to know you have an experienced specialist and treatment options close to home.