Click here for the latest information about our system outage

  • Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Pay my bill
  • Patient portal
  • Giving
  • Careers
  • About Us
Central Maine Healthcare Logo

Central Maine Healthcare

Where You are the Center

  • Find providers and locations
        • Providers & Locations

          • Find A Provider
          • Find a Practice
          • CMMC
          • Bridgton Hospital
          • Rumford Hospital
          • Manchester Care Center
          • Topsham Care Center
          • Cancer Care Center
          • Other medical offices
          • Bolster Heights Residential Care
          • Rumford Community Home
  • Services
        • Services

          • Find A Provider
          • Find a Practice
          • A to Z Search for Services
          • Primary care
          • Cancer care
          • Cardiovascular services
          • Orthopedic care
          • Women’s and children’s health
          • Surgical services
  • Patients and visitors
        • Patients & Visitors

          • Visitor Guidelines
          • myHealthlink patient portal
          • Billing & Financial Information
            • Pay my Bill
            • Choosing a Health Plan
            • Financial Assistance
            • No Surprises Act
            • Price Transparency
          • Patient Relations
            • Advanced Care Planning
            • Be Safe Speak Up
            • Gerrish-True Health Sciences Library 
            • Interpreter Services and Assistive Devices
            • Request Your Medical Records
            • Spiritual Support
            • Student Nurses
          • Find a provider
          • Your Rights and Responsibilities
          • Patient and Family Advisory Council
          • Arbor House
  • Find care
        • Find Care

          • Find a Provider
          • Find a Practice
        • If you are experiencing a medical emergency, please call 911.

Cardiac MRI

Valve Disease

Structural heart disease is any type of abnormality of the heart’s muscle, valves, arteries or other supporting structures. The most common type of structural heart disease is aortic stenosis, which affects about 1.5 million Americans.

In the past, open heart surgery offered the only option for repairing structural heart conditions. But now, minimally invasive surgery offers you or your loved one a far less complex way to correct some structural heart and valve problems. Our heart providers have expertise in all types of heart valve surgeries, including minimally invasive aortic valve and mitral valve surgery. We offer valve repair as well as both aortic valve replacement (AVR) and transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR)] a revolutionary, minimally invasive alternative to open heart surgery.

What is Structural Heart and Valve Disease?

Aortic stenosis is a condition that affects the aorta, which is the main artery through which blood flows from the heart to the rest of your body. The aortic valve must open fully to allow blood to flow and then close to prevent blood from flowing back into the heart. When your aortic valve doesn’t function properly, blood flow from the heart is decreased and the heart must work harder to pump blood, which can cause thickening of the heart as well as chest pain. Over time, blood can back up into your lungs.

Although aortic stenosis can develop before birth (congenital aortic stenosis), it is more likely to occur later in life, because of a buildup of calcium deposits on the aortic valve. Aortic stenosis afflicts about 2 percent of people over age 65. It’s important to diagnose and replace faulty heart valves, because if you have severe aortic stenosis and don’t have the valve replaced, the chance of dying in two to three years increases by roughly 50 percent.

Another common type of structural heart disease is mitral valve stenosis. The mitral valve is located between the left atrium and the left ventricle of the heart and controls blood to flow from the left atrium into the left ventricle. Problems with this valve can make it harder for your heart to pump blood properly.

Recognize Valve Disorder Symptoms

Valve disorders can cause the following symptoms:

  • Chest pain or discomfort that may worsen with activity
  • A feeling of pressure or squeezing in the chest that can extend into the arm, jaw or neck
  • Cough, sometimes bloody
  • Trouble breathing during activity
  • Fatigue
  • Heart palpitations
  • Fainting
  • Weakness, lightheadedness or dizziness, particularly with activity
  • Swelling of the feet or legs

How Do You Determine Structural Heart Disease?

To diagnose structural heart disease, your cardiologist starts by giving you a physical exam and talking with you about your symptoms and health history. You may also receive one or more of the following diagnostic tests:

  • Electrocardiogram (ECG): This test uses small sensors (electrodes) attached to your chest and arms to record electrical signals as they travel through your heart. 
  • Echocardiogram: In this noninvasive test, sound waves are used to produce a video image of your heart in motion. 
  • Chest X-ray: This test can show whether your heart is enlarged and whether you have enlarged blood vessels or calcium buildup in your heart. 
  • Cardiac stress test (also known as a treadmill test or exercise EKG or ECG): This test measures how your heart performs in response to exercise or stress by monitoring blood flow and oxygen levels as your heart beats faster and works harder.
  • Cardiac computerized tomography (CT) scan. This test uses a series of X-rays to look at the size and condition of your heart and heart valves.
  • Catheterization and angiogram: During this test, a cardiologist guides a catheter (a thin plastic tube) through an artery in the arm or leg into coronary arteries. Dye is injected through the catheter, to make images that can be captured in an X-ray. This test allows your providers to look at your heart and heart valves. 
  • Cardiac MRI: This test uses magnets and radio waves to create images of your heart as it beats. It can give your providers a better idea of whether your heart or valves are damaged. 

A to Z Search for Services

Central Maine Healthcare covers all of your physical and mental health needs.
Click on a service below to learn more about what we offer and where to find care near you.

  • A
  • B
  • C
  • D
  • E
  • F
  • G
  • H
  • I
  • J
  • K
  • L
  • M
  • N
  • O
  • P
  • Q
  • R
  • S
  • T
  • U
  • V
  • W
  • X
  • Y
  • Z
  • Addiction Services

    We are committed to understanding and serving people who are living with addiction. We provide compassionate trauma-informed care based on best practi… Learn More >

  • Bariatric Surgery

    Central Maine Bariatric Surgery understands how important weight loss is for patients. We have been established since 2007 and have a team ready to su… Learn More >

  • Breast Health

    When it comes to caring for your breast health, Central Maine Healthcare offers a spectrum of services to help screen, diagnose, and treat. From the m… Learn More >

  • Cancer care

    The Cancer Care Center at Central Maine Medical Center is an integrated, multi-disciplinary program that combines a full spectrum of services and med… Learn More >

  • Cardiovascular services

    Central Maine Heart and Vascular Institute (CMHVI) brings skilled medical specialists and innovative treatments to the people of central Maine and bey… Learn More >

  • Diabetes and Endocrinology

    Diabetes and other endocrine-system conditions are complex, and when you’ve been diagnosed with one, it’s hard to know what to do next. Learn More >

  • Ear, Nose and Throat

    At Central Maine Healthcare, our board-certified ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialists understand how this connected system works and can identify th… Learn More >

  • Emergency Care

    If you’re experiencing a life-threatening emergency, dial 9-1-1 immediately or go to your nearest ER. Emergencies happen when you least expect them,… Learn More >

  • Gastroenterology

    Your digestive system involves so many parts of the body – your throat, stomach, intestines, colon, rectum, pancreas, gallbladder and liver. So, whe… Learn More >

  • Imaging Services

    Welcome to Central Maine Medical Center Imaging Services. We take pride in providing our community with technologically advanced, up-to-date imaging s… Learn More >

  • Integrative Medicine

    At Central Maine Healthcare, we’re focused on the whole you — mind, body and spirit. That’s why we specialize in integrative medicine, with a va… Learn More >

  • Laboratory Services

    Central Maine Healthcare offers lab services at convenient locations for tests as part of your routine appointment or for screening of specific condit… Learn More >

  • Long-Term Care

    At Central Maine Healthcare, our long-term care feels exactly like home. We believe in taking complete care of you or your loved one’s physical, med… Learn More >

  • Neurology

    Central Maine Healthcare's neurologists and other doctors are specialists in epilepsy, movement disorders and other neurological disorders. Learn More >

  • Nutrition Services

    Clinical Nutrition A Registered Dietitian (RD) is a “food and nutrition expert” who has completed a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree ... <a class… Learn More >

  • Orthopedic care

    The Orthopedic Institute of Central Maine (OICM) serves the people of Central, Western and Midcoast Maine. OICM works collaboratively with our outpati… Learn More >

  • Palliative Care

    Central Maine Healthcare's palliative care is specialized medical care for people with serious illness. This type of care is focused on providing reli… Learn More >

  • Pediatrics

    CMH’s kid-friendly team members and ambience — as well as our kid-sized examination tables and tools — instantly put children at ease. And we fi… Learn More >

  • Pharmacy

    The CMMC Pharmacy is open to the public and accepts all major insurance plans. As part of your healthcare team, let our pharmacy assist you with manag… Learn More >

  • Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

    Plastic and reconstructive surgery is a personal choice, and a personal journey. At Central Maine Healthcare, our double-board certified physician a… Learn More >

  • Primary Care

    At Central Maine Healthcare, we make primary care easy and accessible to community members like you. We believe in providing compassionate, quality ca… Learn More >

  • Pulmonary

    At Central Maine Healthcare we provide diagnosis and treatment to our patients as well as education to both the patient and family. Learn More >

  • Rehabilitation and Therapy

    Whether you have suffered an injury at work or on the field, are recovering from surgery or just want to better manage pain, the Orthopedic Institute… Learn More >

  • Rheumatology

    Rheumatology is the study and treatment of rheumatic disorders, a wide range of conditions affecting the joints and connective tissue and typically ca… Learn More >

  • Sleep Medicine

    At Central Maine Healthcare, we know what a peaceful night’s sleep means for your health and life. Our board-certified sleep medicine specialist and… Learn More >

  • Surgical services

    Central Maine Heart and Vascular Institute (CMHVI) brings skilled medical specialists and innovative treatments to the people of central Maine and bey… Learn More >

  • Telehealth Services

    Central Maine Healthcare now offers telehealth services, bringing you the care you need when you’re unable to leave home. Online and telephone visit… Learn More >

  • Trauma Center

    We offer three ERs right in the communities we serve – each staffed 24/7 with board-certified emergency providers and specialty trained team members… Learn More >

  • Urology

    Using the latest and most advanced screening technology allows our medical team to scan with amazing detail. This allows us to more accurately detect… Learn More >

  • Women’s and children’s health

    Women of all ages have unique health and medical needs, which is why Central Maine Healthcare has spent decades building services, treatment, educatio… Learn More >

  • Wound Care

    Central Maine Medical Center’s Comprehensive Wound Center is a centralized location for all aspects of wound care. Our team of specialists provides… Learn More >

Imaging Services

Central Maine Healthcare has cutting edge Imaging technology that allows us to see patient anatomy clearer and better than ever before. And what’s more is that we do not have to sacrifice patient comfort in the process — our equipment is always clean and comfortable. Our Technologists make sure your images are completed as quickly and accurately as possible and the Radiologist provide detailed reports for each exam.

CMH offers a full range of imaging technology, services and centers including X-Ray, Interventional Radiology, Open-Bore MRI, Computerized Tomography, Mammography, Ultrasound and Nuclear Medicine.

Find a Location Near You

Central Maine Medical Center
300 Main Street
Lewiston, ME  04240
Imaging:  207-795-2410

Bridgton Hospital
10 Hospital Drive
Bridgton, ME  04009
Imaging: 207-647-6092

Rumford Hospital
420 Franklin Street
Rumford, ME  04276
Imaging: 207-369-1131

Shields Health Care Group offers state-of-the-art imaging, including MRI, PET/CT, Mammography, CT, Echocardiography and Ultrasound. As a reminder, your health records are confidential. Should you need access to your mammography images and/or reports from the Topsham Care Center location, please call 1-800-258-4674 and select option 3 to speak with the Shields Health Medical Record Department.

CT Scan: A CT (computerized tomography) scan combines a series of X-ray images taken from different angles around your body. Then, it combines the differently angles together to show a composite image. Because of this, CT scan images provide more detailed and comprehensive image than plain X-rays do.

Why a CT Scan? A CT scan has many uses, but it’s particularly well-suited to quickly examine people who may have internal injuries from car accidents or other types of trauma. It is also used to identity cancers or progression of diseases, stoke and other neurological changes. Invasive procedures may be performed as well to include biopsy, drainage, catheter placements and at CMMC Cryo-Embolizations. CT scans can be performed for head, chest, abdomen, pelvis, spine and many more body areas. Staffed by advanced trained or CT certified CT Technologists. Radiologists with advanced expertise in performing procedures as well as timely and detailed reports. Benefits to our CT services include:

  • Inpatient services – 24/7 availability
  • Outpatient services – 7:30 a.m. – 8 p.m. by appointment only
  • CMMC CT is accredited through the American College of Radiology
  • CMMC CT also has a specialized distinction for CT Lung Screening with a fully accredited CT lung screening program through the American College of Radiology

Interventional Radiology

Interventional Radiology (IR) uses minimally invasive, image-guided procedures to diagnose and treat conditions, while also minimizing risk for infection or complication. Conscious sedation as well as anesthesia is provided when needed. Staffed by highly trained Interventional Radiologic Technologists and IR Registered Nurses. Radiologists with advanced expertise in performing procedures who provide timely and detailed reports. Our IR procedures include, but are not limited to:

  • Port-a-Catheter insertions: This procedure refers to surgically implanting a device beneath the skin to allow long-term access to a patient’s veins with low risk of infection.   Medications are injected into the port, and then the attached catheter spreads them throughout the body. This is often used to deliver chemotherapy in cancer patients.
  • Gastrostomy tube insertions: Commonly known as a feeding tube, this device is inserted through the abdomen to provide nutrition when a patient has trouble eating.
  • Embolizations Venous and Arterial: Allows for catheter-based restriction of blood flow to reduce tumor size or stop a trauma patient bleeding in venous or arterial vessels.
  • Dialysis AVF interventions: Dialysis patients who are having problems with their AV fistula can be treated with various balloons and/or stents to improve their dialysis treatment.  A temporary catheter may be placed for dialysis treatment in patients who may not have an AV fistula.
  • Y90 Yitrium Procedures. Allows the injection of radioactive micro spheres targeted to cancer in the liver and improves/extends the lives for end stage cancer patients.

Mammography

We offer mammography services at Central Maine Medical Center, Bridgton Hospital and Rumford Hospital. Locations and Services below:

Sam and Jennie Bennett Breast Care Center, Lewiston, ME

Benefits of our Bennett Breast Cancer Center include:

  • 3D Mammography (Tomosynthesis) and Biopsy
  • Bennett is fully accredited by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers
  • Bennett has specific accreditation by the American College of Radiology for stereotactic breast biopsies and ultrasound-guided breast biopsies
  • All sites hold certification by the FDA’s Mammography Quality Standards Act
  • All sites accreditation by the American College of Radiology
  • Bennett offers 3D Tomosynthesis and other sites offer Digital Mammography
  • Bennett holds Breast Ultrasound Accreditation through the American College of Radiology
  • All sites dedicated Mammographers and Sonographers on-site daily
  • Team members include Mammographers, Sonographers, Radiologist, a Breast Surgeon, Breast Nurse Practitioner, a RN, and a RN Breast Health Navigator.
  • All sites provide Bone density scans to check for osteoporosis

Rosina Marie Carlise Mammography Suite at Bridgton Hospital

  • Screening and diagnostic mammograms

Lariviere Oncology Suite at Rumford Hospital

  • Screening and diagnostic mammograms

Nuclear Medicine

Nuclear medicine imaging uses small amounts of radioactive material that is typically injected into the bloodstream, inhaled, or swallowed. The material travels through the body and gives off energy in the form of gamma rays. A special camera detects these rays, making it possible to create images of the inside of your body. Identifies early stages of a variety of diseases:

Nuclear medicine provides unique information that often can’t be obtained through other imaging procedures and can identify disease — including cancer, heart disease and gastrointestinal conditions — in the early stages. Team members are highly trained certified Nuclear Medicine Technologists. Radiologists with advanced expertise in performing procedures as well as timely and detailed reports. Benefits to our nuclear medicine services include but are not limited to:

  • Cardiac Stress Tests
  • Thyroid Treatments
  • Zofigo Studies
  • Bone Scans

Open-Bore MRI

Using a powerful magnetic field, radio frequency pulses, and a computer, an MRI can produce pictures of virtually all internal body structures including soft tissue, bone, joints, and ligaments.

Central Maine offers the latest MRI technology with a 1.5T high-field, open-bore MRI unit. This unit takes pictures with sharp detail and amazing clarity, while the wide opening provides maximum comfort and prevents claustrophobic feelings for the patient. Staffed by advanced trained MRI Technologists. Radiologists with advanced expertise in performing procedures as well as timely and detailed reports. Benefits to our MRI technology include:

  • More than one foot of headroom in the MRI Unit
  • Short machine length, allowing for exams to be performed with head outside of scanner
  • Faster scan times and shorter breath holds
  • Exceptional image clarity so there are few repeat scans

MRI locations:

  • Central Maine Medical Center – in-house MRI unit
  • Bridgton Hospital – Mobile MRI unit
  • Rumford Hospital – Mobile MRI unit

All units offer the same high level 1.5T platform. This way, all patients in the Central Maine Healthcare system, have access to the same top-of-the-line MRI imaging services.

Ultrasound

Ultrasound is an imaging method that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of structures within your body. Most ultrasounds are done using a handheld probe/transducer outside your body, but some involve placing a probe/transducer inside your body (transvaginal study).

Ultrasounds Versatile and Non-Invasive: What makes ultrasounds so useful is that they can be used for a variety of conditions and reasons. From providing an image of a growing baby to checking a patient’s kidneys to examining the thyroid and soft neck tissue, an ultrasound is one of the most versatile and non-invasive imaging services. ARDMS Sonographers obtain certification in Abdominal/Small Parts and OB/GYN as well as advanced certification in Breast, Neuro and Pediatric. Our Radiologists have advanced expertise in performing US guided procedures as well as detailed and timely reporting. Benefits to our Ultrasound services include:

At CMMC, full accreditation by the American College of Radiology in Diagnostic Ultrasound and for Breast Ultrasound.

At CMMC, Bridgton Hospital and Rumford Hospital:

  • Exams offered in a wide range of specialties: obstetrics, gynecology, vascular, etc.
  • Newborn ultrasounds
  • Ultrasound-guided biopsy procedures

X-Ray

X-ray works by using X-ray beams that pass through your body. They are absorbed in different amounts depending on the density of the material they pass through. They are often used to see very dense body structures like your bones, making them very helpful in diagnosing and treating fractures and breaks. Staffed by highly trained Radiologic Technologists and Radiologists with advanced expertise in performing procedures as well as timely and detailed reports. Benefits of our X-Ray Services:

  • 24/7 availability
  • Highest standard image quality with lower radiation exposure than conventional technology
  • Fluoroscopy services, which provide real-time images, for upper and lower GI studies, lumbar punctures (spinal tap) and much more.
Central Maine Healthcare Logo

About Our Health System

  • About Us
  • Awards and Accreditations
  • Be Safe Speak Up
  • Board of Directors
  • Contact CMH
  • Leadership Team
  • Mission, Vision and Values
  • Non-Discrimination Notice
  • Patient and Family Advisory Council
  • Patient Relations
  • Price Transparency
  • Privacy Practices Notice
  • Quality & Safety
  • Social Media Policy for Site Visitors
  • Vendor Relations
  • Visitor Guidelines
  • Your Rights and Responsibilities

I Want To…

  • Find A Location
  • Find A Provider
  • Pay my Bill

For Our Community

  • Bridgton Hospital
  • Cancer Care Center
  • Central Maine Medical Center
  • Rumford Hospital
  • Topsham Care Center
  • A to Z Search for Services
  • CMH News
  • Giving

For Healthcare Professionals

  • Careers
  • Nursing at Central Maine Healthcare
  • Maine College of Health Professions
  • Residency Program
  • Hospital Medicine Fellowship
  • Resources for Team Members

For Team Members

  • Team Member Portal
  • Workday