Diagnostic Imaging in Iksan

Diagnostic imaging, also known as medical imaging, describes a variety of techniques to look inside the body to diagnose the cause of an injury or illness, as well as to find any signs of a health condition. It is also used to see how well your body responds to treatment for an illness or fracture. 

Many diagnostic imaging tests are noninvasive and painless. Some tests use a small amount of radiation exposure. Some require you to remain still inside a machine for a long time, which may cause little discomfort. 

Other diagnostic tests involve the insertion of a small camera attached to a thin, long tube (often referred to as a “scope”) into your body. These types of diagnostic tests are invasive and require anesthesia.

Some of the most common types of diagnostic imaging tests are as follows:

• X-ray is among the most well-known diagnostic imaging tests. It generates images that allow your doctor to see if there is any damage or injury to the bones.
• Computed tomography (CT) scan, also known as “cat scan,” is a test that combines a series of X-ray images taken from different angles. It is often used to quickly examine people who could have internal injuries. It can help doctors evaluate the brain, spine, abdomen, chest, and neck.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) uses a powerful magnet to obtain an image of the body instead of radiation. It is most commonly used to examine spinal cord and brain anomalies, joint abnormalities, and tumors.
• Ultrasound, also known as sonography, uses high-frequency waves to create images of the inside of the body. It is most commonly used to examine a fetus during pregnancy. However, it can also be used to examine a wide range of body parts, including the heart, joints, and bladder.
• Mammography is a type of x-ray image of the breast. It can be used to check for early breast cancer signs that cannot be felt through the use of a low-dose x-ray.
• A diagnostic biopsy is the main method doctors use to diagnose most types of cancer. It involves the removal of a piece of tissue or cell sample to be analyzed in a laboratory.

• Endoscopy, laparoscopy, and colposcopy involve the insertion of a thin, flexible scope with a video camera attached to its end through a passageway or bodily opening to look at the inside of a particular organ, such as the colon or the lungs.

How Long Should I Stay in Iksan?

You can usually leave the hospital straight away after diagnostic imaging tests. However, it is advisable that you stay in Iksan for 5 to 7 days to wait for the results. Once the results are ready, you will have to attend a follow-up appointment where your doctor explains the results and discuss the treatment plan, if needed.

What's the Expected Recovery Time?

Most diagnostic tests, such as ultrasound and CT scan, do not require any recovery time. However, you may need to take one or two days off work and avoid strenuous activities for several days after some types of diagnostic biopsy, endoscopy, laparoscopy, and colposcopy.

What Aftercare is Required?

There is usually no special aftercare or restrictions after diagnostic imaging tests. You may be advised to drink plenty of water immediately after, especially if contrast was used. If the procedure is invasive, your doctor will give you detailed instructions on how to care for the wounds. 

What's the Success Rate?

Diagnostic imaging tests have high success and accuracy rates. The continuous improvement and advancement of diagnostic imaging technology have transformed healthcare, allowing for earlier diagnosis of many medical conditions, reduces the need for invasive processes. The side effects of diagnostic imaging tests are very minimal, such as slight discomfort, pain, swelling, and bruising.

Are there Alternatives?

There are no alternatives to diagnostic imaging. It is vital for the diagnosis of medical conditions, allowing your doctor to decide the best treatment or management plan.

Diagnostic Imaging in and around Iksan

About Iksan

Iksan is a city in the western part of South Korea. It was formed in 1995 from the merger of the city of Iri with Iksan County. The city is often referred to as “The City of Jewelry” as it is the center of jewelry manufacturing in the country. In addition, it is also known as the market center of agricultural products, as well as a major railway junction in North Jeolla Province. Today, the city is slowly becoming a medical tourism hotspot for foreign patients who want to obtain medical treatments in South Korea. Combining modern medical technology and traditional Korean medicine, hospitals and clinics in the city are frequented by patients from all around the world.  

Popular Parts of Iksan

Iksan was once the capital of the ancient Baekje Kingdom, which is why the city has numerous ancient temples. Tourists are welcome to explore and admire these temples, where they can learn more about the city’s fascinating history. Those who are intrigued by the city’s history can visit the Mireuksaji Museum, which displays and preserves the relics of the ancient temples from the Baekje Kingdom. As the center of jewelry manufacturing in South Korea, the city also has a jewelry museum called the Iksan Jewelry Museum. This museum was built to educate visitors about jewelry and to provide a cultural space related to Baekje relics. Other popular attractions include the Central Park (Chungang Cheuk Gongwon), Seodong Park, and Gemma Sculpture Park. In Central Park, visitors are free to sit on the ground and watch the Music Fountain, which is really beautiful especially at night. 

Transport in Iksan

International medical tourists who want to visit Iksan usually arrive at Incheon International Airport or Cheongju International Airport. From both of these airports, they can ride the bus or the train to reach Iksan. The best ways to get around the city is by bus or the subway, but taxis are available and are reasonably priced.

Visas in Iksan

South Korea allows holders of passports issued by 112 countries, such as all EU countries, the US, Canada, and Russia, to visit and stay in the country for 30, 60, or 180 days. Citizens of other countries not listed in the visa-free entry need to apply and obtain a visa before their travel to Iksan.

Weather in Iksan

Iksan experiences four seasons. The winter, from November to early March, is typically cold and long. The temperatures during this season can plummet as low as -20°C. Spring sets in March and the temperatures begin to warm up. However, rainfall also becomes more frequent during this season. Summer begins in June and ends in August. The weather can be hot, rainy and muggy. September to November is the autumn, which brings nearly perfect weather. 

Additional Info

1. Local Currency:  The official currency is South Korean Won (KRW). 1 USD is approx. 1,185 KRW.
2. Money & Payments:  It’s easy to find ATMs and credit cards are accepted in most establishments. Tipping is not expected, except for porters and tour guides. In some restaurants, tipping may be considered rude.
3. Local Language:  Korean is the official language and Hangul is the formal script. Many people do speak and understand English at a lower level.
4. Local Culture and Religion:  Most people in the city are not religious or follow indigenous religions. Other religions, particularly Buddhism and Christianity, are also practiced.
5. Public Holidays: New Year’s Day, Independence Day, and the Birthday of Buddha are some of the more celebrated holidays in Iksan.