expert type icon EXPERT

Clay Robert Hinrichs, M.D.

Radiologist

Dr. Clay Hinrichs is a radiologist practicing in Hackettsown, NJ. Dr. Hinrichs specializes in diagnosing and treating injuries and diseases using medical imaging techniques such as X-Rays, magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography exams. These techniques offer accurate visibility to the inside of the patients body and help to detect otherwise hidden illnesses so that they can be treated quickly and efficiently.
26 years Experience
Clay Hinrichs, M.D.
  • Hackettstown, NJ
  • St Georges University
  • Accepting new patients

Can a CT scan detect a bone infection?

It can be part of the process to diagnose Osteomyelitis. We have many types of imaging in such a work-up. X-ray, CT, MRI, Nuclear Medicine, and lab work. Sincerely, Clay READ MORE
It can be part of the process to diagnose Osteomyelitis. We have many types of imaging in such a work-up. X-ray, CT, MRI, Nuclear Medicine, and lab work.

Sincerely,

Clay Hinrichs, MD

Can I have coffee before a neck and chest CT scan?

Yes, you may.

Sincerely,

Clay Hinrichs, MD

Why can't you have caffeine after a CT scan?

There is no true contraindication to ingesting caffeine after a CT exam.

Sincerely,

Clay Hinrichs, MD

MRI bright spot?

It is a normal large vein (transverse sinus) in the back of the head.

Sincerely,

Clay Hinrichs, MD

Is an airport x-ray safe for pregnant women?

Yes.

Sincerely,

Clay Hinrichs, MD

Why does radiation cause fatigue?

The level of radiation one experiences from imaging studies does not cause fatigue.

Sincerely,

Clay Hinrichs, MD

Is it normal to feel tired after a CT scan?

It is not normal to feel tired.

Sincerely,

Clay Hinrichs, MD

Can a CT scan affect early pregnancy?

Yes, it can. There are theoretical risks of radiation to the fetus. The thought is an all or non phenomenon before 16-18 weeks. Meaning it does not cause congenital abnormalities READ MORE
Yes, it can. There are theoretical risks of radiation to the fetus. The thought is an all or non phenomenon before 16-18 weeks. Meaning it does not cause congenital abnormalities to the fetus, but can cause loss of the pregnancy in theory. Although this may be frightening physicians do not typically order imaging on pregnant women flippantly. There usually is a clinical indication and the study truly does need to be done. If your physician recommends a CT scan, it is important to inform them if you are pregnant. Do not be surprised if the study still needs to be performed in many clinical scenarios.

It is important to note the laymen’s understanding of radiation exposure is usually off. Most people think that any radiation exposure is bad. That actually is not our present understanding. For example, individuals who live in brick houses or are airline pilots have a much higher radiation exposure than the general population. What is interesting about those individuals is they actually have lower mortality rates.

Sincerely,

Clay Hinrichs, MD

Can a chest CT scan show heart problems?

Not unless it is tailored for Cardiac Imaging such as a calcium scoring or coronary CT angiogram.

Sincerely,

Clay Hinrichs, MD

What can a mammogram detect?

Mammography utilizes to detect abnormal masses and calcifications which are potential indicators of breast cancer.

Sincerely,

Clay Hinrichs, MD

How is CT scan preparation different from an x-ray?

Typically yes if it is ordered with IV contrast

How much IV contrast do you need for a CT scan?

It varies depending on the examination. A CT Angiogram traditionally use his last IV contrast. Interestingly the doses will more IV contrast are not directly related to issues. READ MORE
It varies depending on the examination. A CT Angiogram traditionally use his last IV contrast. Interestingly the doses will more IV contrast are not directly related to issues.

Can I wear a bra during a CT scan?

Not typically. For a chest CT exam or for other exams, yes.

Do you get CT scan results soon after?

Typically within 48 hours. Sometimes it's sooner.

Is a head CT scan safe for children?

Safety is a complicated question. X-ray and CT exams utilizes ionizing radiation. All humans experience background radiation. If you were a stewardess or live a brick house you READ MORE
Safety is a complicated question. X-ray and CT exams utilizes ionizing radiation. All humans experience background radiation. If you were a stewardess or live a brick house you have an increased dose per year. Unnecessary scans are frowned upon by a child has a CT scan ordered it’s not taken into account. It’s typically needed and needs to be performed. the benefit outweighs the risk.

How many x-rays are safe in a day?

There is no such number.

Can a full body MRI detect cancer?

Full body MRI is not a thing. We do not perform such scans for screening by MRI. It’s a complicated answer for the reasons why we do not perform that exam.

Possible Reactions to MRI with IV

The incidence of a reaction to MRI IV contrast is extremely rare as compared to CT contrast. We utilize a rare earth metal vs CT dye. Reactions to each are not related. I hope READ MORE
The incidence of a reaction to MRI IV contrast is extremely rare as compared to CT contrast. We utilize a rare earth metal vs CT dye. Reactions to each are not related. I hope this helps.