Diagnostic Imaging in Lebanon

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 Lebanon?

You can usually leave the hospital straight away after diagnostic imaging tests. However, it is advisable that you stay in Lebanon 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 Lebanon

Lebanon, a country on the eastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea, is one of the smallest sovereign states. The country boasts a fascinating mixture of the Middle East and the West, Christianity, and Islam, and tradition and modernity. It has everything from golden beaches and World Heritage Sites to energetic nightlife and delicious cuisine. Among other countries in the Middle East, Lebanon appears to be one of the most popular medical tourism destinations. Over 10% of the tourists visiting the country, particularly from neighboring countries, come to receive medical care. Many hospitals and clinics in the country are accredited to the ISO:9000 standard and offer world-class specialist services in spine treatment, orthopedics, organ transplant, and other complex surgeries, as well as advanced cancer treatments. Cosmetic and reconstructive surgery are also popular.

Popular Parts of Lebanon

Beirut, the capital and largest city of Lebanon, is filled with historic landmarks and natural wonders. The most famous attractions in the city are the National Museum of Beirut, the Corniche and Pigeon Rocks, Sursock Museum, and Mohammed Al Amin Mosque. Many people also come to Lebanon to visit the port town of Sidon. Once a rich and thriving Phoenician city, it is dotted with historical monuments and ancient remnants, particularly in its Old City. Other popular cities include Tripoly, Baalbek, Byblos, and Tyre.

Weather and Climate in Lebanon

Lebanon has four seasons: winter (December to March), spring (April to May), summer (June to September), and autumn (October to November). Winter is the rainy season with high precipitation levels and cool temperatures. It is snowy in the mountains, but in some places, such as Beirut, it just rains during this season. Summer is hot, sunny, and dry, and can get very humid in cities located close to the sea. In the summer, the average temperatures are around 28°C to 30°C. Spring and autumn are both warm and pleasant. 

Getting around in Lebanon

The main international airport where visitors fly into and out of Lebanon is Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport, which is the only operational commercial airport in the country. It serves international flights to numerous major cities across Europe and the Middle East, including Moscow, Paris, London, and Dubai. Given the small size of the country, there are no internal flights. Intercity buses and minibus are available and have an extensive network, especially in coastal areas. The best way to get around the country is by hiring a car (with a driver) or by using intercity taxis. 

Tourist Visas in Lebanon

All visitors need to obtain a visa to enter and stay in Lebanon unless they come from one of the seven visa-exempt countries (including Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Oman, the United Arab Emirates, and Jordan). Citizens of 81 countries, including all EU countries, Australia, China, Canada, and the United States, are eligible for a visa on arrival for a maximum stay of 30 days. A conditional visa on arrival is available for citizens of 15 countries, including Algeria, Libya, Iraq, and Yemen. 

Additional Information

1. Local Currency: Lebanese Pound (LBP) is the official currency in Lebanon. 1 USD is equivalent to around 1,507 LBP. US dollars and the euro is widely accepted as well.
2. Money & Payments: ATMs are widely available in many places around Beirut and other large cities. Many ATMs dispense both US dollars and Lebanese pounds. Credit cards, particularly Visa and MasterCard, are accepted at most major establishments. Tipping can be expected, usually around 10% to 15% of the bill. 
3. Local Language: Arabic is the official language in Lebanon. English and French are widely spoken as well, and many Lebanese can speak at least two to three languages.
4. Local Culture and Religion: Islam (around 60% of the population) and Christianity (around 34%) are the primary religions in Lebanon. About 5% of Lebanese practice the Druze faith, while other religions are practiced by the remaining 1% of the population.
5. Public holidays: New Year’s Day, Christmas Day, Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, All Saints’ Day, Resistance and Liberation Day, as well as Independence Day are some of the more important holidays in Lebanon.