expert type icon EXPERT

Donald R. Massee, MD

Radiologist

Dr. Donald R Massee MD is a top Radiologist in Riverside, . With a passion for the field and an unwavering commitment to their specialty, Dr. Donald R Massee MD is an expert in changing the lives of their patients for the better. Through their designated cause and expertise in the field, Dr. Donald R Massee MD is a prime example of a true leader in healthcare. As a leader and expert in their field, Dr. Donald R Massee MD is passionate about enhancing patient quality of life. They embody the values of communication, safety, and trust when dealing directly with patients. In Riverside, CA, Dr. Donald R Massee MD is a true asset to their field and dedicated to the profession of medicine.
38 years Experience
Donald R. Massee, MD
  • Riverside, CA
  • Loma Linda University School of Medicine
  • Accepting new patients

What can a CT scan of abdomen show?

A CT of the abdomen pelves without contrast is often used to evaluate for kidney and ureteral stones. A CT abdomen/pelvis with contrast will show detailed anatomy and numerous READ MORE
A CT of the abdomen pelves without contrast is often used to evaluate for kidney and ureteral stones. A CT abdomen/pelvis with contrast will show detailed anatomy and numerous potential abnormalities including: normal variations, tumors, bowel obstruction, appendicitis, gallbladder stones and possible inflammation, arterial calcification and arterial stenosis, venous anomalies or thrombosis, bladder stones, bladder abnormalities, prostate size and abnormalities, uterine and ovarian abnormalities, bone and spine abnormalities, etc. A CT abdomen/pelvis is a very fast excellent review of the abdomen and pelvis.

Does an MRI of brains show tumors?

MRI of the brain particularly with and without contrast is the best imaging modality to pick up brain tumors and other abnormalities. Additionally, an MRA sequence will pick up READ MORE
MRI of the brain particularly with and without contrast is the best imaging modality to pick up brain tumors and other abnormalities. Additionally, an MRA sequence will pick up vascular abnormalities such as aneurysms. The MRA sequence adds very little time to the examination length.

Are x-rays dangerous for older people?

No. The small, theoretical risk of cancer induction by X-ray decreases with advancing age.

Can I have an x-ray if I am pregnant?

X-ray of the toes is safe for the baby during pregnancy. They will likely shield your abdomen. The radiation dose is very low for X-ray of the toes and the beam is distant from READ MORE
X-ray of the toes is safe for the baby during pregnancy. They will likely shield your abdomen. The radiation dose is very low for X-ray of the toes and the beam is distant from your pregnancy.

Can a CT scan detect clogged arteries?

Yes, particularly when it is performed with specific timing and higher contrast flow rates. This called CTA or CT angiography.

Can X-rays show old fractures?

Often old fractures are visible, particularly if there is residual deformity from a fracture that was imperfectly aligned during healing.

What can I expect with an MRI with contrast?

Adding contrast involves an intravenous injection and usually 3 short additional sequences. The total imaging time is usually approximately 30 minutes. Macrocyclic gadolinium agents READ MORE
Adding contrast involves an intravenous injection and usually 3 short additional sequences. The total imaging time is usually approximately 30 minutes. Macrocyclic gadolinium agents such as Gadavist, Prohance and Dotarem have the highest safety profile.

How is a MRI done on the shoulder?

Hi, You will be put into a magnetic tube. A coil will be placed on your shoulder. You will have to remain very still for the exam which will probably last 20 minutes. Before READ MORE
Hi,

You will be put into a magnetic tube. A coil will be placed on your shoulder. You will have to remain very still for the exam which will probably last 20 minutes. Before the exam you will be asked about metal in the body or history of metal in the eyes. You will be asked about implanted devices such as pacemakers, infusion pumps or neurostimulators. You will need to remove all metal, electronic devices, wallet with credit cards, etc., from your person before going in the the room for your MRI. You will be given ear plugs. You will be able to communicate with the technologist during the exam by intercom.

Regards,

Donald Massee

What does a shadow on an ultrasound mean?

This may be a way of communicating an abnormality that needs further work up. Don't be alarmed until you have discussed the findings with your doctor and they may recommend additional READ MORE
This may be a way of communicating an abnormality that needs further work up. Don't be alarmed until you have discussed the findings with your doctor and they may recommend additional tests for clarification. This is not precise terminology that would be used by a radiologist in their report.

How do you stay calm during an MRI?

Meditation, biofeedback and sometimes a benzodiazepine may be required.

How do duplex and standard ultrasounds differ?

Duplex ultrasound includes doppler evaluation of the blood vessels. Specifically, the ovarian blood vessels in pelvic ultrasound or fetal blood vessels in the umbilical cord for READ MORE
Duplex ultrasound includes doppler evaluation of the blood vessels. Specifically, the ovarian blood vessels in pelvic ultrasound or fetal blood vessels in the umbilical cord for obstetric ultrasound.

Do you have to take your clothes off for an MRI?

Remove wallet, credit cards, keys, jewelry, and watch. Empty all pockets. If you are wearing clothing with no metal, it would be MRI safe. Choose elastic or tie wast band. If READ MORE
Remove wallet, credit cards, keys, jewelry, and watch. Empty all pockets. If you are wearing clothing with no metal, it would be MRI safe. Choose elastic or tie wast band. If the technologist has any questions about your clothing, they may elect to have you disrobe and put on a patient gown.

Is a chest x-ray safe for my baby?

Yes, a CXR is safe for your baby. The average dose for a CXR is .1 mSv which is comparable to 10 days exposure to natural background radiation.

Is it safe to do an MRI scan on my brain?

Very safe and the best imaging modality for most abnormalities of the brain or spine.

Does an MRI show spinal cord injuries?

MRI is the exam of choice for brain and spine. It is excellent for the bones, nerve roots, brain and spinal cord. MRI will definitely accurately diagnose your issues. CT is great READ MORE
MRI is the exam of choice for brain and spine. It is excellent for the bones, nerve roots, brain and spinal cord. MRI will definitely accurately diagnose your issues. CT is great for acute injuries. It is better at finding acute fractures and acute hemorrhage.

Is my son getting too many x-rays?

It is always important to evaluate risk versus benefit with any ionizing radiation. When you say 3 X-rays of the abdomen in a year I am assuming you mean abdominal series. The READ MORE
It is always important to evaluate risk versus benefit with any ionizing radiation. When you say 3 X-rays of the abdomen in a year I am assuming you mean abdominal series. The approximate dose for a 3 view abdominal series is 53 mrem or .53 mSv. Three abdominal series in a year would be 159 mrem or 1.59 mSv. This is 1/2 of the annual natural background radiation we all receive in a year, which is 300 mrem. This would not be considered a harmful dose in this perspective.

Clearly all exams should be performed with caution and dose minimizing techniques. Exams should be indicated. When possible US or MRI can be used in children rather than ionizing radiation. A CT abdomen and pelvis has approximately 1000 mrem or 10 mSv dose. This is 3 times the natural annual background radiation dose. CT in children should be used judiciously and performed with the lowest possible dose that will still provide a diagnostic exam and answer the clinical question.

What is a lung PET scan?

-Know your medications and allergies -Limited carbohydrate diet for 24 hours prior to the date of your appointment -Do not eat or drink anything except water for 6 hours prior READ MORE
-Know your medications and allergies
-Limited carbohydrate diet for 24 hours prior to the date of your appointment
-Do not eat or drink anything except water for 6 hours prior to the exam
-Drink plenty of water
-Take routine medications. Take your diabetic medication no less than 4 hours prior to the examination
-Arrive 15 to 30 minutes prior to your exam
-An IV will be started. In some cases, isotope and contrast are administered
-Duration of the exam is up to 2 hours
-Breathing instructions should be followed
-Hydrate after the examination

Breast mammogram vs. breast ultrasound for tumors?

Mammograms are currently the only recognized asymptomatic screening exam. Mammograms are recommended annually beginning at the age of 40 (ACR guidelines). Mammography has been READ MORE
Mammograms are currently the only recognized asymptomatic screening exam. Mammograms are recommended annually beginning at the age of 40 (ACR guidelines). Mammography has been recommended to start up to a decade before a 1st degree relative was diagnosed with breast cancer. US is an excellent supplemental exam for dense breasts. MRI is currently
recommended if there is a +20% lifetime chance of breast cancer. If a 35-year-old patient is symptomatic, then a diagnostic mammography and breast US should be ordered for initial evaluation.

Is it safe for a 10 year old child to have an MRI performed?

MRI does not use radiation and, along with ultrasound, is the best imaging for children. Of course, the indication for imaging must always be factored in.