What is thermography?

Thermography, or Digital Infrared Thermal Imaging (DITTI), is a completely non-invasive clinical imaging procedure that aids in monitoring of several physiological concerns by illustrating the thermal abnormalities present in the patient's body. It is risk-free and provides instant images. The practice of thermography is grounded in preventative care and the premise that, if you are able to find problems before the body's functions are impaired, health issues may be more treatable. Many problems are present in the body long before there is an obvious, physical manifestation. Thermography is a visual representation of physiology in the body and generates a colorful map of the body for functional comparison. The heat patterns viewed in a thermography scan may be associated with various health concerns. By creating a baseline of your body's own heat patterns, minor changes may be identified earlier with annual thermography. While thermography does not diagnose these health issues, it creates a clear map with attention focused on a particular region of interest. Increases in blood supply illustrated by the color representations in a thermogram show where there may be abnormal physiology. Thermography does not visualize structure, but instead shows the activities within the body that may coincide with dysfunction. Thermography does not replace more invasive procedures or other diagnostic tests and is a safe, pain-free, radiation-free approach that is complementary to these other methods of examination.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How is it different from other methods of diagnostic assessment?

DITI and its colorful imaging may provide a visualization of pain and pathology anywhere on the body. It can also be used in conjunction with and is an excellent addition to anyone's health management program. While X-Rays, CT Scans, Ultrasounds, and MRIs are tests that measure the body structures, DITI is uniquely capable of illustrating the physiological changes and metabolic processes within the body. Digital Infrared Thermal Imaging is a non-invasive screening technique that offers clinically relevant information without side effects.

What is thermography?

Thermography or Digital Infrared Thermal Imaging (DITTI) is a completely non-invasive clinical imaging procedure that aids in monitoring a number of physiological concerns by illustrating the thermal abnormalities present in the patient's body. It is risk-free and provides instant images. The practice of thermography is grounded in preventative care and the premise that, if you are able to find problems before the body's functions are impaired, health issues may be more treatable and generally may heal more quickly. Many problems are present in the body long before there is an obvious, physical manifestation. Thermography is a visual representation of what is happening in the body and creates a colorful map of the body for functional comparison. The heat patterns viewed in a thermography scan may be associated with various health concerns. By creating a baseline of your body's own heat patterns, minor changes may be identified earlier with annual thermography. While thermography does not diagnose these health issues, it creates a clear map with attention focused on a particular region of interest. Increases in blood supply illustrated by the color representations in a thermogram show where there may be abnormal physiology. Thermography does not show the actual structure, but instead shows the activities within the body that may coincide with dysfunction. Thermography does not replace more invasive procedures or other diagnostic tests and is a safe, pain-free, radiation-free approach that is complementary to these other methods of examination.

For what is DITI used?

Digital Infrared Thermal Imaging assists in the monitoring of a myriad of different conditions, injuries, and diseases like:

What is the procedure like?

How long does the procedure take?

How are the scans used?

How soon will the report be available?

Are Thermograms covered by insurance?

Who reads the images and reports?

Who certifies your Thermographers?

Why do I need to come back in three months for another breast thermoscan?

The most accurate result we can produce is change over time. Before we can start to evaluate any changes, we need to establish an accurate and stable baseline for you. This baseline represents your unique thermal fingerprint, which will only be altered by developing pathology. A baseline cannot be established with only one study, as we would have no way of knowing if this is your normal pattern, or if it is actually changing at the time of your first exam. By comparing two studies three months apart, we are able to judge if your breast physiology is stable and suitable to be used as your normal baseline for continued annual screening.

How do I prepare for my DITI scan?

Preparing for your scan is simple, but crucial for accurate results. Do not have any physical therapy, electromyography, or chiropractic work the same day as your thermography appointment. Do not smoke or participate in vigorous exercise 2 hours before the test. Do not use any lotions, liniments or creams, or shave the day of your scan. Avoid strong sunlight exposure the day of your appointment.