The Radiology Department provides a full scope of diagnostic imaging, including general x-rays, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasound using the latest technology and state-of-the-art equipment.
All of our consultant physicians are Board Certified and licensed by the Palestinian Ministry of Health and by the Palestinian Medical Council, with expertise in subspecialties such as neuroradiology, cardiothoracic / vascular imaging, abdominal / cross sectional imaging, pediatrics, interventional and therapeutics. We offer advanced procedures, like functional / dynamic MRI, and CT virtual colonography.
Plain Film Imaging (X-Rays)
These x-rays are usually quite straightforward involving a part of the body, being placed as close to the x-ray film or plate as possible. These x-rays are similar to having a photograph taken. Some examples of when they are used:
They are generally taken by a radiographer and reported on by a radiologist.
X-rays are usually requested by your doctor or dentist within the hospital or from the outside who is responsible for your medical care.
CT Scans
CT scanning involves using x-rays and computers to produce images of internal organs. It takes many cross-section images, building up a picture of any body part and can produce detailed 3D images of things like bones, blood vessels, heart, growths and tumors. Sometimes you will be asked not to eat anything prior to your appointment if this is the case you will Receive instructions with your appointment.
You may be given something to drink prior to your exam. You may also need to have an injection material (contrast) injected into a vein in your arm to show the blood vessels and organs.
The length of your scan may vary depending on the area of your body being scanned. Allow at least two hours for your appointment. You will not be given the results of your scan immediately. The radiologist will examine the scans and send a detailed report through to the doctor who referred you.
The results will then be discussed at your next appointment.
MRI Scans
Magnetic and radio waves take detailed pictures of the soft tissue parts of the body like muscles, tendons and the spinal cord. For abdominal and pelvic scans you can’t eat or drink for six hours before your appointment. You will be informed if this is the case. Scans can take anything from 30 minutes to an hour depending on what is being scanned, but again you’ll be informed of this. You will not be given the results of your scan immediately. The radiologist will examine the scans and send a detailed report through to the doctor who referred you.
The results will then be discussed at your next appointment.
Ultrasounds
High frequency sound waves reflect off the body to produce images of internal organs. A gel is applied to the area and a probe producing sound waves is rubbed over the body. Some scans may be internal, but you’ll be informed of this.
Some scans require special preparation beforehand but you’ll be informed of this prior to your appointment.
The scans usually last 15 – 30 minutes.
Results are usually sent to the doctor who referred you.
Ultrasounds & Pregnancy
Radiographers are also involved in performing scans during pregnancy. Ultrasound is very safe and can give detailed images of the developing fetus at various stages of the pregnancy. The obstetrical unit is responsible for organizing these scans and women are generally offered two scans during their pregnancy; at booking and again at 18 – 20 weeks.
Other scans may be performed as required at any stage of the pregnancy.
Barium Studies
Barium is a special liquid which is used by the x-ray department to demonstrate the digestive system. For Barium, meals/swallows you will be asked to drink the liquid and x-ray images will be taken with you standing and lying in various positions. This enables the radiologist to visualize the gullet and stomach. To image the small bowel you will have images taken over a period of several hours. To image the large bowel (intestine) Barium must be introduced into the back passage, along with some air, and again a series of images are taken.
These procedures last approximately 30 minutes.
Interventional Procedures
These are specialist x-ray procedures used to investigate and treat conditions such as vascular disease, cancer, biopsies of various structures and the treatment of emergency conditions.
The procedure will be explained to you in depth by the referring clinician and by the radiologist performing the procedure.
Some of these procedures are performed as day cases whilst others may require an overnight stay in the hospital.
Dr. Haneen Owienah is a Radiologist with 3 years of experience. Currently she is the Head of the Radiology Department at Istishari Arab Hospital.
Prior to joining Istishari Arab Hospital in Ramallah, Dr. Owienah worked at Ibn Rashid Radiology Center - Hebron.
Dr. Owienah graduated from the Faculty of Medicine from Al-Quds University, she continued her specialized training in Diagnostic Radiology at Al-Makassed Hospital - Jerusalem and Al-Ahli Hospital - Hebron.
