Imaging services

A CT scan produces a series of cross-sectional images that can help your doctor detect certain conditions that do not show up on traditional X-rays. CT scans provide images of the body’s internal anatomy, like organs, tissues and bones.

A CT scan is able to detect and localize changes in the body structure or anatomy, such as the size and exact location of an abnormal growth or musculoskeletal injury.

During a CT scan, the X-ray tube moves rapidly around a specific part of your body as you lie still on the table. This allows a thin X-ray beam to target a specific part of your body. The X-ray beam is picked up by an electronic detector, which records the information onto a computer. Once the images are on the computer, multiple pictures from different angles combine to make a cross-sectional picture.

MRI scans are noninvasive medical tests that allow your doctor to see various parts of your body without surgery. This can include:

• Areas of infection
• Internal organs
• Joints
• Muscles
• Tumors

MRI machines use a magnetic field and radio frequency to provide detailed images, which means you will not be exposed to any radiation.

PET scans produce images at the molecular level and are able to distinguish between living and dead tissue or between benign and malignant disorders.

The PET/CT scan combines the strengths of both PET and CT into a single scan. This can help physicians more accurately diagnose, localize and monitor cancer.

Ultrasound technologists use our advanced technology to see inside the body using high-frequency sound waves. An ultrasound uses a probe to project and receive sound waves and return signals. Ultrasounds are often used during pregnancy to monitor a baby's development. However, it can also be used to diagnose and detect conditions, such as gallbladder disease and joint inflammation.

X-rays are typically used to take a closer look at your bones, lungs or soft tissue. This is a quick and painless procedure that helps your doctor pinpoint the source of an injury, condition or disease. X-ray technology is most commonly used to identify:

• Arthritis
• Blocked blood vessels
• Bone cancer
• Bone fractures
• Enlarged heart
• Infection
• Joint problems
• Lung infections
• Osteoporosis

IR is a minimally invasive procedure that uses X-rays and other imaging techniques to produce images of inside the body. During IR, an interventional radiologist guides narrow tubes (catheters) and other small instruments through blood vessels and other pathways.

IR can be used to treat a wide range of conditions, such as:

• Blocked or dilated veins
• Blood clots in the lung
• Expanded or narrow arteries
• Gall stones
• Hemorrhage
• Kidney stones
• Tumors throughout the body

To schedule an interventional radiology exam, please call (408) 559-2146.

Nuclear medicine uses small amounts of radioactive materials to diagnose and treat diseases. It has the ability to identify abnormalities in the early stages of a disease, long before many medical problems are apparent with other diagnostic tests.

The amount of radiation in a typical nuclear imaging procedure is kept within safe limits and is comparable with a diagnostic X-ray.

Nuclear imaging can be used to detect and treat:

• Bone conditions and fractures
• Cancer
• Heart function
• Infections
• Neurological disorders
• Respiratory problems
• Thyroid function

Arthrograms

An arthrogram is a nuclear imaging procedure used to evaluate the condition of joints. Conventional arthrography uses a special form of X-ray called fluoroscopy, which makes it possible to see bones, joints and internal organs in motion.

During an arthrogram, iodine contrast is injected into the joint. The contrast material fills the entire joint and becomes visible during an X-ray evaluation. This allows your radiologist to assess the anatomy and function of the joint.

Discograms

A discogram is a nuclear imaging test used to evaluate back pain and to help your doctor determine if it is caused by an abnormal disc in your spine. During a discogram, dye is injected into the soft center of a spinal disc. Dye may be injected into several discs to pinpoint the cause of your back pain.

We offer advanced imaging services specifically for women's health needs. Our breast care center offers breast imaging services, such as 3D mammograms, screening mammograms, breast ultrasounds and computer-aided detection (CAD). Additionally, we provide dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scans to diagnose osteoporosis and osteopenia.

To learn more about the imaging services we offer, call our radiology department at (408) 559-2162. To schedule an outpatient imaging exam, call (855) 495-1753.