Cranial Thermal Imaging
A Cranial Thermal Imaging Scan is a specialized thermal imaging study of the head and neck. The thermal imaging study records temperature patterns at the surface of the skin. When considered together with your health history, physical examination, and other diagnostic studies, it may provide additional clinical information.
Unlike X-ray, CT, MRI, or ultrasound, thermal imaging records temperature patterns rather than anatomical structures. The thermologist evaluates patterns of warmth and cooling that may suggest changes in circulation, nervous system activity, muscle function, and other physiologic changes.
A Cranial Thermal Imaging Scan may be appropriate for individuals with concerns involving the head or neck or for those who wish to establish baseline images for future comparison. Every thermal imaging study at Midwest Thermography is independently interpreted by Dr. Robert Kane, a board-certified Clinical Thermologist with decades of experience interpreting medical thermal imaging studies..
What is Evaluated?
A Cranial Thermal Imaging Scan records thermal images of the head and neck, allowing the thermologist to evaluate thermal patterns involving the:
- Face
- Jaw and Facial Muscles
- Temporomandibular (TMJ) region
- Mouth and teeth
- Thyroid
- Neck
The thermologist evaluates thermal patterns that may be associated with:
- Regional circulation
- Muscle irritation and tension
- Localized inflammation
- Peripheral nerve irritation
- Sympathetic nervous system activity
- Dental-related thermal findings that may warrant clinical correlation
- Previous injury or surgical sites
- Other thermal findings that may warrant clinical correlation
Because thermal imaging records temperature patterns at the surface of the body, it does not directly evaluate internal organs.
What to Expect During Your Appointment
Your appointment begins with a review of your health history followed by a 15-minute acclimation period to allow your skin temperature to adjust to the controlled imaging environment.
Thermal images are then obtained from multiple views using a high-resolution computerized infrared imaging system. The imaging procedure is completely non-contact, radiation-free, and painless. Standardized patient preparation protocols established by the American Academy of Thermology and the International Academy of Clinical Thermology are followed for every study.
After your appointment, your images are forwarded to Dr. Robert Kane for interpretation. Once the report is completed, it is returned to Midwest Thermography and provided to you. At your request, a copy may also be sent to the doctor or health care provider of your choice.
Understanding Your Thermal Imaging Report
Your thermal imaging report should be considered together with your health history, physical examination, and other clinical findings. Thermal imaging is not a stand-alone imaging study and cannot diagnose or rule out the presence of injury, infection, or disease.
When appropriate, your doctor may recommend additional evaluation based on your symptoms, physical examination, and the findings contained in your thermal imaging report.