Cancer Imaging

Clear Imaging Leads to Clearer Care

Medical imaging — with precise 3D images — gives your providers a clear picture of where and how to treat your cancer, tailoring your treatment to you. Our experienced medical imaging specialists and technicians provide your oncology team with sharp, clear images using leading-edge technology like computed tomography (CT) scans, PET-CT scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and beyond.

CT Scan

Computed Tomography (CT) Scans
The clearer the picture of your condition, the better your care team can customize your cancer treatment to your unique needs. Our CT scans show your doctors precise 3D images of your brain, heart, stomach, bones and blood vessels. With these, your team can measure your progress, customize your treatments and put restoring your whole health in our sights.

How a CT Scan Works
Your CT scan will be painless and take about 30 minutes. A doughnut-shaped scanner uses carefully measured amounts of radiation to generate pictures, so you may hear a slight buzzing or clicking sound.

How to Prepare for a CT Scan
Take these steps to prepare:

Remove any metallic or other items and all jewelry
Don't eat or drink three hours beforehand, depending on what type of CT scan you’re getting

Before, during and after your CT scan, we’re here to accommodate every request, whether you need back and leg cushions, music or a mild sedative if small spaces make you uneasy.

MRI

Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) digitally maps nearly every body part and structure, so you and your team know exactly how to customize your cancer treatment. This type of scan doesn’t require radiation like some other tests, so you’ll have a safer experience and greater peace of mind.

How an MRI Works
Your comfort is our priority, so you can request an oversized MRI machine with wider openings, unobstructed sides and plenty of breathing room.

How to Prepare for an MRI
Take these steps to prepare for your scan:

MRIs use powerful magnets, so be sure to remove any jewelry and hearing aids beforehand
If you have an implanted metal coil or cardiac pacemaker, be sure to let your doctor know to see if you’re still eligible for an MRI
Keep in mind that you’ll hear tapping or thumping during your procedure (we have lab-approved headsets available upon request)

PET-CT Scan

Positron Emission Tomography and Computed Tomography Scans
Sometimes, your oncology team needs full-color medical imaging to locate specific cells and target cancer. Together, positron emission tomography (PET) and computed tomography (CT) scans provide the most detailed pictures of bones, organs and tissues, all in bright 3D neon for more clarity.

How a PET-CT Scan Works
PET-CTs see cells through an intravenous sugar containing a radiotracer — a safe, sugary liquid that identifies cancer cells and makes them visible on the screen. These scans typically take less than two hours.

How To Prepare for a PET-CT Scan
Take these steps to prepare:

Avoid eating or drinking several hours in advance of your procedure
Let us know what you need; we’re happy to provide warm blankets, socks and cushions for your back or legs upon request

You’re here to get definitive answers. We’re here to make the process smoother and more comfortable with non- and minimally invasive imaging procedures. Before your test, we’ll work with you so you know what to expect and how to prepare. Our compassionate nurses will start by asking about any illnesses, allergies, medical implants and medications. Each test is different, so it’s possible you may be asked to fast or take a laxative for clearer, more effective pictures. On the day of your appointment, please wear loose clothing and leave your jewelry at home.

You may be given a hospital gown to wear throughout your testing experience. To highlight certain areas on screen, you might receive an IV or be asked to drink a “contrasting” liquid. Many tests use big machinery that makes noise, so if you feel uncomfortable, let us know, and we’ll do our best to help you feel at ease. Know that most tests are painless and take under an hour. And afterward, your medical team will know more — and be better able to guide your healing.