Imaging Services

Advanced Imaging Services at St. Francis Medical Center

At St. Francis Medical Center, we offer a wide range of imaging tests, all under one roof. Our team includes radiologists and technologists whose depth of expertise ensures safe, accurate testing. Our commitment to quality and safety has earned our program accreditation from the American College of Radiology (ACR), the professional organization that sets national standards for imaging services.

For further information, contact us at 310-900-4514

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Highlights of Our Program

Convenience

We take extra steps to make testing easy and convenient. Many members of our team are bilingual (English and Spanish) and take the time to help you understand the tests you need and what to expect. With early morning hours for some tests, including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), we make it easy for you to schedule tests around your busy lifestyle. We do walk in “plain x-ray” (chest, extremities, abdomen) patients on the weekends 8 AM – 12 PM.

Safety

Your safety is at the center of everything we do. We use all the latest and safest available equipment, including digital X-ray systems and imaging scanners that minimize radiation exposure whenever possible.

Comfort

We use the most advanced testing equipment, including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners that minimize noise during your test. Our scanner reduces noise levels by 97 percent compared to previous scanners, creating a more pleasant and comfortable experience.

Minimally Invasive Care

Imaging technologies at St. Francis are so precise that they sometimes replace the need for more complex diagnostic procedures. For example, if we need to examine a blockage in one of your veins, we may use magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to safely determine whether you need surgery. The MRI test is so accurate, it often replaces the need for a catheter angiography, which is a more invasive diagnostic procedure.

Imaging Tests and Treatments

Imaging tests use different kinds of energy, including X-rays and sound waves (ultrasound) to produce images of your bones and internal organs. We use this information to deliver the most accurate possible diagnosis or determine your risk of having certain conditions in the future.

Ultrasound

Using sound waves and special computers, ultrasound creates digital images of your organs. We use ultrasound to perform a wide range of tests, such as examining the health of unborn babies or to look for blockages in veins or other hollow organs including the fallopian tubes. We also use ultrasound to deliver advanced treatments, such as abdominal paracentesis, with a high degree of accuracy.

3-D breast imaging (mammography)

St. Francis is one of the first hospitals in Los Angeles to offer 3-D digital mammography. This technology offers superior accuracy compared to traditional, two-dimensional tests and helps us deliver the most accurate possible diagnosis.

X-rays

We use digital imaging techniques to capture quick and accurate images of your bones while minimizing radiation exposure. Digital techniques deliver images that are so accurate, we can usually capture the information we need in a single test. This accuracy helps you get the care you need faster. For patients needing our emergency and trauma services, we offer 24/7 access to X-rays and imaging services.

Computed tomography (CT) scan

CT scans use X-rays taken from different angles and special computer software to create 3-D images. St. Francis has two sophisticated scanners that can produce accurate images in seconds.

CT services are available 24/7 for inpatient and emergency services, and for scheduled outpatient procedures Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM.

Bone density scan

Also known as dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), bone scans help us determine your risk for osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a condition in which bones become weak, increasing your risk for a break (fracture). DXA is a quick, painless test that uses a special form of X-ray technology to measure the strength of your bones.

Nuclear imaging

These tests use very small amounts of radioactive substance (radiotracers) to diagnose complex medical conditions. As radiotracers travel through the body, they give off energy that we can detect using a special camera. Nuclear imaging tests are helpful because they give us information that we cannot obtain through other tests, such as how blood flows to certain areas of the heart.

Nuclear medicine services are available around the clock for inpatient and emergency services, and for scheduled outpatient procedures Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM.

Radiation therapy

This therapy treats cancer with the help of special technology and high-energy X-rays. Our expertise from treating more than 500 new cancer patients a year translates to an exceptional level of care, giving you the best possible chances for successful treatment. Find out more about radiation oncology.