Imaging

This test examines bones to find any areas of physical or chemical changes.

To perform a bone scan, a certified technician will give you a small amount of radioactive substance called tracer. The tracer will collect within the bone tissue in any areas where abnormal physical or chemical changes have occurred.

After your scan, you'll need to drink plenty of fluids to help flush any tracer remnants out of your body.

During a CT scan, a series of X-ray images are taken from many different angles. These pictures are put together by a computer to form highly detailed 3-D images.

CT scans aren't invasive and only expose you to a small amount of radiation. The scans can be used to help diagnose diseases and life-threatening illnesses, such as stroke.

In addition to a regular CT scan, we perform CT angiography and CT-guided biopsies.

A DEXA scan measures bone mineral density and can be used to diagnose bone loss and osteoporosis. The scan takes less than 10 minutes. Afterward, your doctor will walk you through your results and recommend any dietary or lifestyle changes you need to make.

Mammograms are low-dose X-rays of breasts that allow your doctor to check breast density and spot possible signs of breast cancer, like lumps and tumors, before you even notice them. Breast cancer is easiest to treat when it's found early.

Both Inter-Community Hospital and Foothill Presbyterian Hospital provide the latest technology in mammograms by offering 3D Tomosynthesis.

Learn more about mammography at Emanate Health

An MRI uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create highly detailed images of your organs and tissues. MRIs don't expose you to radiation.

Because MRI imaging uses a powerful magnet, you can't have any metal on you during the exam. We'll screen you before your MRI, but please inform us of any metallic implants that may be present on your body.

If you have anxiety or claustrophobia, we can offer helpful options such as sedation or having a loved one remain in the room for support.

A PET (positron emission tomography) scan is the most advanced medical imaging technique available today. PET scans are used to detect changes in cell function. A PET/CT scan can provide an earlier and more accurate detection of diseases like cancer than either PET or CT alone.

An ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to create images. The test is noninvasive and doesn't expose you to any radiation.

Ultrasounds are commonly used during pregnancy to check on the baby's development. But they can also be used to examine other areas of the body, including the abdomen, breast, pelvis and testicles.

Ultrasound exams are performed in a private room with the option to have a loved one present.

An X-ray is a form of electromagnetic radiation that creates images of the structures inside your body, such as your skeletal system. Getting an X-ray is fast and noninvasive. Depending on the area being X-rayed, you may be asked to wear a gown during the scan.