Today’s advanced imaging technology makes it possible to see inside the human body more clearly than ever before. Our sophisticated equipment enables doctors to diagnose and treat disease faster and with better accuracy. For patients, this technology means quicker, more comfortable procedures and the confidence of knowing your medical team has the tools they need to provide better care for you.
 
Patient Centered Care
Our Imaging Department was designed for the comfort of our patients. Our friendly staff is dedicated to making the experience here as pleasant as possible. Board-certified radiologists and experienced technicians offer expertise and quality care.
 
For the convenience of our patients and their referring physicians, we provide:

• Easy and flexible scheduling, including some walk-in appointments
• Convenient nearby parking and valet service
• Comfortable, beautifully decorated waiting areas
• Prompt delivery of test results
• Secure Internet access to test results for referring physicians
• All digital systems for high-quality images and faster retrieval

Imaging Systems
At Mountain Vista, our Imaging department includes some of the most advanced medical equipment in use today. 

	64-slice CT Scanner
	Computed Tomography (CT) - also known as a CAT scan - is used to create images of internal organs, tissues and bones. It takes just seconds for the machine to make a complete scan of your entire body or to produce detailed views of a targeted area, such as the brain or heart. Doctors can look at the individual images, called slices, for specific detail. Or, the images can be assembled to create a three dimensional view of an organ. The result is often a faster and more precise diagnosis of disease.
	Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
	Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) creates high-definition, three-dimensional images of internal organs using a combination of a strong magnetic field, radio waves and computer technology. The MRI is invaluable for diagnosing a wide range of conditions, including cancer, heart and vascular disease, stroke, and joint and muscle disorders.
	Nuclear Medicine Cameras
	Nuclear medicine uses safe levels of radioactivity to diagnose disease. In this test, patients take in a very low amount of radioactive liquid, either by mouth or through an IV. The liquid is formulated to go to the part of the body being studied. Special cameras scan the affected area and can detect disease by registering metabolic changes made visible by the liquid. Nuclear medicine procedures are painless and the radiation exposure is equivalent to that of a traditional X-ray.
	General X-ray
	X-ray is the most traditional form of diagnostic imaging and is commonly used to view broken bones and other injuries.
	Radiographic/Fluoroscopic (R&F) Unit
	The R&F unit is used for upper GI and barium studies to detect the cause of many digestive problems. It can also be used to detect spinal cord abnormalities, fractures of vertebrae and certain internal organ functions.
	Mammography
	Mammography is used for the screening and early detection of breast cancer. At Mountain Vista Medical Center, we provide digital mammography, which differs from traditional screen-film mammography. Digital mammography captures the breast image on specially designed digital detectors. This advanced technology provides high quality images as well as a shorter procedure time. At Mountain Vista, we also use a soft, cushioned pad to make the procedure more comfortable.
	Bone Density
	Osteoporosis cannot be detected through a self-exam. At Mountain Vista, we offer bone density testing using the DXA Densitometry Scanner – the most advanced technology available.
	Ultrasound
	Ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to produce real time images from inside the body. It is a safe and painless way to view internal organs, such as the heart, liver, bladder, kidneys and breasts. Most often, it is also used to monitor the health and development of a baby before birth.

Preparing for Your Imaging Procedure
If you have a scheduled appointment, please discuss the procedure and any special instructions with your doctor before your appointment. If a test is ordered while you are a patient at the hospital, your physician, nurse or technician can explain the procedure and answer any questions you have.

These general guidelines will help you prepare for and stay comfortable during your procedure:

• Wear loose-fitting clothing. Items containing metal should not be worn. You may be asked to change into a hospital gown. In some cases, you may be asked to remove jewelry, watches, hairpins, eye glasses or dentures.
• Some tests require that you not eat or drink for a specified time before the procedure. Be sure to ask your doctor about this at least 24 hours before your procedure.
• Tell you technologist if there is any chance you may be pregnant or if you are breastfeeding.
• Tell your technologist if you are allergic to shellfish or iodine.
• Our imaging machines are very sophisticated, enabling faster tests than ever before, but in some procedures, you must remain still for a period of time. Your technologist will explain what you need to do for a successful procedure.

High Tech Systems
Mountain Vista uses a fully digital, electronic imaging system. The results of your diagnostic procedures are viewed on computer screens. Using secure Internet access, your doctor has immediate access to these images from home, the office or the hospital.

Our electronic archiving also makes your entire hospital record available at the click of a computer button. That means, if you come back to the hospital with an emergency, your information is instantly available to your doctors and nurses for faster care.

To schedule an appointment in our Imaging Department, please call 480-358-6450.