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 greater accuracy. Along with the confidence that comes from knowing that your medical team is equipped with the diagnostic tools to provide better care for you, our investment in technology means you’ll benefit from quicker, more comfortable procedures.

Patient Centered Care
Our Imaging Department is designed to maximize your comfort. Our friendly staff is dedicated to making your experience here as pleasant as possible. For the convenience of our patients and their referring physicians, we provide:

• Easy and flexible scheduling, including some walk-in appointments
• Convenient nearby parking
• Comfortable waiting areas
• Prompt delivery of test results

Faster, Better Communication
Because we use a fully digital imaging system, your doctor has immediate access to the results of your diagnostic procedure — and can view them on a computer screen, using secure Internet access, from home, the office or the hospital. Our electronic archiving also makes your entire hospital record available to authorized staff at the click of a computer button. 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.

A physician referral is required for imaging procedures. If you need a physician, please visit the physician referral section of this Web site to view a list of physicians on our medical staff.

Preparing for Your Imaging Procedure
If you have a scheduled appointment, please discuss the procedure and any special instructions with your doctor before you arrive.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 clothes. You may be asked to change into a hospital gown.
• Don’t wear items containing metal. In some cases, you will be asked to remove jewelry, watches, hairpins, eyeglasses or dentures.
• Some tests require you to go without eating or drinking for a specified period before your procedure. Be sure to ask your doctor about this at least 24 hours before your appointment.
• Tell your technologist if there is a chance you may be pregnant or if you are breastfeeding.
• Tell your technologist if you are allergic to shellfish or iodine.
• Some procedures require you to remain still for a period of time. Your technologist will explain what you need to do for a successful procedure.

Advanced Imaging Capabilities
Mountain Vista Medical Center uses sophisticated imaging technology to diagnose and treat a wide variety of medical conditions. 

• 64-slice CT Scanner
  Computer Tomography (CT) scans create images of internal organs, tissues and bones. In just seconds, this advanced technology can make a complete scan of your entire body — or produce detailed views of a targeted area, such as the brain or heart. Physicians can view the individual images (called “slices”) for specific detail. Or they can assemble the images to create a three-dimensional view of an organ. The result often is a faster, more precise diagnosis. The 64-slice CT scanner in our Imaging Department is among the most sophisticated available.
   
• PET Scan
  Positron Emission Tomography (PET) is a non-invasive procedure that can locate abnormal biochemistry in a patient. PET/CT is an innovative way to detect disease and enhance disease management. The combined PET/CT scans provide physicians with images that pinpoint the location of abnormal metabolic activity in the body. Physicians are also able to evaluate brain abnormalities, such as tumors, memory disorders and seizures, and to help in the detection of cancer, or determine whether a cancer has spread in the body. Patients can leave after the procedure has been completed and can resume normal activity, diet and exercise.
  
   
• MRI: Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  MRI technology relies on a combination of radio waves, computer technology and a strong magnetic field to produce high-definition, three-dimensional images of internal organs and structures. Physicians order MRIs to diagnose a wide range of conditions, from cancer, heart and vascular disease and strokes to joint and muscle disorders.
  
   
• Nuclear Medicine
  Nuclear medicine uses tiny, safe levels of radioactive liquid to help physicians diagnose disease. The liquid is formulated so that after you drink it or receive it through an IV, it goes to the part of the body being studied. Then, special cameras scan the affected area. The cameras can detect disease by registering metabolic changes made visible by the liquid. Nuclear medicine procedures are painless and you are exposed to no more radiation than you would receive from a traditional X-ray.
   
• General X-ray
  X-rays are the most traditional form of diagnostic imaging. Even with the advent of many newer and highly advanced technologies, X-rays remain an important part of our Imaging Department and are commonly used to view broken bones and other medical conditions.
   
• Radiographic/Fluoroscopic (R&F) Unit
  Radiographic/Fluoroscopic equipment is most commonly used for upper gastrointestinal and barium studies to detect the cause digestive problems. We also use this technology to detect spinal cord abnormalities, fractures of vertebrae, and certain internal organ functions.
    
• Digital Mammography
  Digital Mammography is used for the screening and early detection of breast cancer. Women over 40 are encouraged to have a mammogram annually. To make this procedure more comfortable for our patients, we use soft, cushioned pads on our mammography equipment.
   
• Bone Density
  Osteoporosis cannot be detected by 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 images inside the body that can be viewed on a monitor. It’s a safe and painless way to view the health and development of a baby before birth. Ultrasound can be used to view other areas of the body, including the heart, liver, bladder, kidneys and breasts.