Introduction
Paul M. Grappell, M.D./James T. Walker, M.D., P.C.
This Radiology practice was
founded by Dr. Grappell in 1974 and joined by Dr. Walker in 1983. From the
earliest days of the practice, the goal was to have a multi-modality radiology facility,
which would include all clinically useful modalities in one location. In
the first few years, the facility was limited to conventional radiography, nuclear
imaging and diagnostic ultrasound. Over the years
this original vision has
grown to include the newer modalities of Computed Tomography (CT), Magnetic Resonance
Imaging (MRI), Vascular and Doppler Imaging, Echocardiography, Bone Density Evaluation
(DEXA) and breast diagnosis including mammography and Computer-Aided Detection (CAD
analysis).
Milestones in the history of the practice have included one of the first dedicated
mammography units on Long Island in 1976, one of the earliest Diagnostic Ultrasound
Scanners on Long Island in 1977 and one of the first ACR Accredited Facilities for
Mammography in 1987 and Diagnostic Ultrasound in 1988.
Recent milestones have included the availability of Computer-Aided
Detection (CAD) for early breast diagnosis in 2001 and the introduction of
digital mammography in 2005. 3-Dimentional Ultrasound assessment for prenatal
diagnosis was introduced in 2002. A Multi-Detector CT (MDCT - GE Lightspeed)
was acquired in 2004. In 2007, Manetto Hill MRI acquired a 1.5 T Siemens
Magnetom Espree, a state-of-the-art open MRI scanner with the largest gantry
opening in the industry. As of December 2007, stereotactic breast biopsy,
ultrasound guided breast biopsy and MRI guided breast biopsy are available in
the Plainview facility.