Diagnostic Services
In addition to the outstanding care provided by our physicians, nurses and other staff, what makes Colonial Family Practice (CFP)truly unique is our approach to patient diagnosis.
When a patient presents with symptoms that require diagnostic testing, most family physician offices refer their patients to other facilities to have diagnostic procedures performed. These referrals can mean additional days or weeks spent waiting for appointments and results, not to mention additional paperwork and bills that can become a hassle.
At CFP, we offer the most common diagnostic procedures right in our office. If a CFP physician finds it medically necessary for a patient to have a diagnostic procedure performed, the patient will have:
- The procedure performed the same day or the next day
- No new paperwork to fill out
- The procedure performed by trained CFP staff and physicians
- Your family physician consulted during the test if needed
- Results automatically posted in your medical records
- The cost of the procedure included in your regular physician bill
- Offering a faster diagnosis means “Improving Your Quality of Life.”
Call us today at (803) 773-5227 for an appointment at one of our convenient locations in Sumter and Columbia, South Carolina or use our secure online appointment request form.
Below is a list and brief explanation of the many diagnostic procedures offered at Colonial Family Practice:
X-rays
X-rays use radiation energy to create images of internal body structures with a quick, painless procedure. X-rays are used to help diagnose a condition, such as a broken bone or some types of tumors.
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CT Scan
Computed tomography (CT) is a non-invasive procedure that is used to provide detailed views of the bones, blood vessels, brain, and dense tissues. With a CT scan, cross-sectional images are produced in a series of slices similar to the slices that make up a loaf of bread. These images can then be manipulated in a computer to create 3D images. The detailed images help doctors diagnose abnormalities, such as tumors, bleeding, bone calcification, and cysts. Select areas or the whole body can be imaged in a short amount of time. CT is a painless procedure.
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Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
MRI is an imaging procedure that produces very detailed pictures of internal body structures. It is a non-invasive method that allows doctors to check for abnormalities and diagnose medical conditions, such as blood clots, tumors, and orthopedic injuries. The MRI machine uses a high-powered magnetic field and radio waves to send signals to a computer where images are created. The images are enhanced and stored in the computer. MRI scans may be used for almost any part of the body.
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DEXA Scan
This is a bone density scan that looks for signs of osteoporosis (thinning of bones). Every woman over 65 needs one every two years, and, based on certain risk factors, some women under age 65 need this as well.
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Ultrasound
An ultrasound uses sound waves to make a picture of the organs and structures in the body. We offer full ultrasound services.
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Pulmonary Function Testing
Recommended for all smokers, especially those with emphysema, COPD, or chronic bronchitis.
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Echocardiogram
An echocardiogram is an ultrasound of the heart to look at heart size and function, including the heart valves. It is recommended for those with heart disease, heart fluttering, uncontrolled blood pressure, chest pain, heart failure, shortness of breath and other conditions.
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Carotid Doppler
This is an ultrasound that looks for blockages in the major arteries that carry blood to the brain. It is useful in assessing the risk for stroke, especially in those with elevated cholesterol, history of symptoms of stroke, uncontrolled blood pressure, and a history of blood vessel disease in other areas (such as the heart or legs).
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Vascular Ultrasound
This type of ultrasound looks for blockages in arteries of the legs to evaluate for peripheral artery disease and also looks for blood clots in the legs (deep vein thrombosis, or DVT).
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Venous Closure
This is a fast and simple way to eliminate varicose veins, especially when painful and related to foot and leg swelling.
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Sleep Studies
Sleep studies are used to evaluate for obstructive sleep apnea in patients with fatigue, poor concentration or memory, loud snoring, and weight gain. One of our physicians, Dr. Grunsky, is one of only two board-certified sleep medicine physicians in the region. Colonial Sleep Lab was opened in 2005 and received accreditation from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine in 2007. Our facility is equipped with sleep lab rooms designed for your comfort and relaxation.
Sleep disorders can have a negative impact on your physical, emotional and mental life. If sleep problems are getting in the way of your daily activities, talk to your doctor about sleep studies at Colonial Family Practice.
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Calorimeter
This is a 15 minute breathing test that accurately calculates a person’s metabolism, including how many calories a day to eat for effective weight loss.
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Autonomic Nervous System Testing
This is a simple, non-invasive test that looks at the heart rate to determine the risk for heart disease and possible need for further heart testing. It is especially useful for patients with diabetes.
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Nuclear Cardiac Stress Testing
This test screens for blockages of the major arteries of the heart. It is especially useful in those over 40, with a history of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, chest pain, history of stroke, shortness of breath, exertional fatigue, diabetes, family history of heart disease and stroke, heart fluttering and an abnormal EKG.
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EGD
This is a visual look down into the esophagus, stomach, and first part of the intestine. This test is used to evaluate causes of abdominal pain, look for ulcers, and determine why heartburn medications may be ineffective.
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Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy is recommended for every patient over age 50 and patients younger than 50 if there are changes in bowel habits, a family history of colon cancer, rectal bleeding, and abdominal pain.
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CPET Testing
This advanced testing evaluates for blockages in the small blood vessels in the heart not detected by routine stress tests. It is ideal for patients with persistent chest pain and shortness of breath after a normal nuclear stress test.
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RAST Allergy Testing
This is a simple blood test to screen for either the 36 common environmental allergens in the Southeastern United States or the 25 most common food allergens. It is useful for anyone who suspects they have seasonal allergies or food allergies.
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Hunter Heart Lab Testing
This advanced cholesterol testing goes well beyond traditional cholesterol tests. It is recommended for those with high cholesterol, as well as those with a family history of heart disease or stroke.
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PreDx Diabetic Screening
This state-of-the-art testing determines the risk of developing diabetes in the future. It is ideal for patients with high blood pressure, high cholesterol, thyroid issues, and obesity.
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Holter Monitoring
This is a 24-hour heart monitor for patients with irregular heartbeats or fainting spells.
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72-hour Continuous Glucose Monitoring
CGM is important for all diabetics with poorly controlled blood sugars. It gives a complete reading of blood sugar levels over a 3-day period, which allows for accurate medication adjustment.
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Nerve Conduction Studies
Nerve conduction studies are useful in detecting any nerve and muscle abnormalities in patients with tingling, weakness, or numbness of the arms and legs.
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Urodynamic Tests
These tests are for all women who experience urine leakage when coughing or sneezing or who have an overactive bladder. This test determines the type of bladder issue to allow your doctor to most effectively manage this condition.
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VNG Balance Plate Testing
VNG testing is used to determine if a vestibular (inner ear) disease may be causing a balance or dizziness problem, and is one of the only tests available today that can decipher between a unilateral (one ear) and bilateral (both ears) vestibular loss.
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