ValleyCare Health System's Diagnostic Imaging Services combine state-of-the-art equipment and facilities with a highly skilled and caring staff. Our facilities offer you a broad range of imaging services in comfortable surroundings close to your home or workplace.

Mammography, MRI and Sonography services at ValleyCare Health System have been certified by the American College of Radiology.



Women’s Imaging Center
Medical Plaza at Stoneridge and W. Las Positas
5725 W. Las Positas, Suite 120
Pleasanton, CA  94588

ValleyCare Medical Center
5555 W. Las Positas Blvd.
Pleasanton, CA 94588

ValleyCare Medical Plaza at Livermore
1133 E. Stanley Blvd.
Livermore, CA 94550



To schedule appointments, please call (925) 734-3376.



Staffed by experienced ValleyCare nurses, technologists, intervention care cardiologists, and radiologists, the Angiography Suite provides diagnostic catheterization procedures for both cardiac and non-cardiac disorders.

Cardiac Catheterization involves the insertion of a fine tube-like catheter into your blood vessels or heart chambers to inject an iodine-containing compound and look at the blood vessels or heart chambers. Physician Referral is required. Patients register though Admitting at ValleyCare Medical Center.

Emergency Balloon Angioplasty is offered to patients who arrive in the Emergency Room with a heart attack. They rapidly undergo restoration of blood flow by inflating a small balloon inserted inside the blocked blood vessel. This service is limited to selected patients. Offered in Pleasanton only.



One out of every two women past menopause has osteoporosis. 75% of women who have osteoporosis don’t even know they have it. It is a potentially crippling disease. Women are not the only ones who develop osteoporosis. According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, 2 million American men have osteoporosis, and another 12 million men are at risk.

Bone density measurement is a diagnostic test used to measure the amount of mineral in bones. ValleyCare has the latest technology in bone density screening and uses dual energy x-ray absortiometry (DEXA). It involves lying on a table for 10-20 minutes while low dose x-ray beam scans the spine, hip or both. The test is painless and there is no known risk other than minimal radiation exposure.

Medicare has covered bone density tests since 1998 for qualified individuals at risk for osteoporosis. Reimbursement through private carriers is variable. In either case, physician referral is required. Many women find it convenient to schedule this bi-annual screening procedure with their mammogram.



A CAT scan is a diagnostic imaging procedure that uses a combination of x-rays and computer technology to produce cross-sectional images, both horizontally and vertically, of the body. A CT scan shows detailed images of any part of the body, including the bones, muscles, fat, and organs. CT scans are more detailed than standard x-rays.

CT scans may be performed to help diagnose tumors, investigate internal bleeding, or check for other internal injuries or damage. ValleyCare employs the latest advances in CT technology, called computed tomographic angiography (CTA) to obtain images of blood vessels.

CT scans may be done with or without contrast. "Contrast" refers to a substance taken by mouth or injected into an intravenous (IV) line that causes the particular organ or tissue under study to be seen more clearly. Contrast examinations may require you to fast for a certain period of time before the procedure. You will need to let your physician know if you have ever had a reaction to any contrast dye, or if you are allergic to iodine or seafood. If you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant, you should notify your physician.

How is a CT or CAT scan performed?

CT scans are normally performed on an outpatient basis, unless they are part of a patient's inpatient care. Generally, CT scans require you to remain still during the procedure which lasts and average of 10 to 20 minutes. When you arrive for the CT scan, you will be asked to remove any clothing, jewelry, or other objects that may interfere with the scan. Remember to tell the radiologist if you are allergic to iodine or other materials, or if you are pregnant. CT Scans are offered in Pleasanton only and physician referral is required.

1. If you are having a procedure done with contrast, an intravenous (IV) line will be started in the hand or arm for injection of the contrast medication. For oral contrast, you will be given medication to swallow.

2. You will lie on a scan table that slides into a large, circular opening of the scanning machine.

3. The CT staff will be in another room where the scanner controls are located. However, you will be in constant sight of the staff through a window. Speakers inside the scanner will enable the staff to communicate with and hear you.

4. As the scanner begins to rotate around you, low-dosage x-rays will pass through the body for short amounts of time.

5. The x-rays absorbed by the body's tissues will be detected by the scanner and transmitted to the computer.

6. The computer will transform the information into an image to be interpreted by the radiologist.

7. It is very important that you remain very still during the procedure.

8. You may be asked to wait for a short period of time while the radiologist examines the images to make sure they have all the information they need for an accurate diagnosis. If the scans are not clear enough to obtain adequate information, you may need to have additional scans performed.

Like sonography (or Ultrasound), echocardiography uses sound waves to produce images that help us study your heart including valve function, blood flow and pumping function. Offered in Pleasanton only. Physician referral required.



This is an X-ray procedure that uses ingested or administered compounds (containing iodine or an inert barium) for studies of the upper and lower portions of your digestive and urinary systems. Offered in both Livermore and Pleasanton. Physician referral required.



Abnormalities seen on various imaging studies, such as X-rays, sonograms, CT scans, nuclear medicine or MRI may be sampled or treated using any combination of these technologies. This may reduce or replace the need for more invasive surgery. Many of these procedures are done on an outpatient basis and you may resume light activity later that evening. Several specialty procedures, such as treating fractures of your spine, are also offered by this division. Offered in Pleasanton only. Physician referral required.



ValleyCare MRI is certified by the American College of Radiology.

MRI is a diagnostic procedure that uses a combination of a large magnet, radio frequency, and a computer to produce detailed images of organs and structures within the body. ValleyCare offers two types of MRI machines:

High-Field Magnet in Pleasanton: produces images of great detail.

Open-sided Magnet in Livermore: may be helpful for plus size patients, those with claustrophobia and for children who need to be attended by a parent. Open MRI units do not completely surround the patient.

We offer music for you to listen to during your procedure to make your experience pleasant and relaxing. If you prefer to bring in your own music or book on CD you are welcome to do so. Dress in casual clothing, without metal zippers or snaps and you should not have to change clothes for your procedure in most cases. You will be asked to fill out a safety questionnaire to make sure we are aware of any previous surgery or metal implants that may affect your procedure. For your safety we also ask that you bring in a current copy of all medications you currently take, including herbal supplements.  

How does an MRI scan work?

The MRI machine is a large, cylindrical (tube-shaped) machine that creates a strong magnetic field around the patient. The magnetic field, along with a radio frequency, alters the hydrogen atoms' natural alignment in the body. Computers are then used to form a two-dimensional (2D) image of a body structure or organ based on the activity of the hydrogen atoms. Cross-sectional views can be obtained to reveal further details. MRI does not use radiation, as do x-rays or computed tomography (CT scans).

A magnetic field is created and pulses of radio waves are sent from a scanner. The radio waves knock the nuclei of the atoms in your body out of their normal position. As the nuclei realign back into proper position, they send out radio signals. These signals are received by a computer that analyzes and converts them into an image of the part of the body being examined. This image appears on a viewing monitor.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be used instead of computed tomography (CT) in situations where organs or soft tissue are being studied, because bones do not obscure the images of organs and soft tissues, as they do in CT. Because radiation is not used, there is no risk of exposure to radiation during an MRI procedure.

Due to the use of the strong magnet, MRI cannot be performed on patients with implanted pacemakers, intracranial aneurysm clips, cochlear implants, certain prosthetic devices, implanted drug infusion pumps, neurostimulators, bone-growth stimulators, certain intrauterine contraceptive devices, or any other type of iron-based metal implants. In addition, MRI may not be used with internal metallic objects such as bullets or shrapnel, as well as surgical clips, pins, plates, screws, metal sutures, or wire mesh.

Newer uses and indications for MRI have contributed to the development of additional magnetic resonance technology. Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) is a procedure used to evaluate blood flow through arteries in a noninvasive manner. MRA can also be used to detect aneurysms within the brain and vascular malformations (abnormalities of blood vessels within the brain, spinal cord, or other parts of the body).

How is an MRI performed?

An MRI may be performed on an outpatient basis, or as part of inpatient care. Although each facility may have specific protocols in place, generally, an MRI procedure follows this process:

1. Because of the strong magnetic field, you must remove all jewelry and metal objects such as hairpins or barrettes, hearing aids, eyeglasses, and dental pieces.

2. If a contrast medication and/or sedative is to be given by an intravenous line (IV), an IV line will be started in your hand or arm. If the contrast is to be taken by mouth, you will be given the contrast to swallow.

3. You will lie on a table that slides into a tunnel in the scanner.

4. The MRI staff will be in another room where the scanner controls are located. However, you will be in constant sight of the staff through a window. Speakers inside the scanner will enable the staff to communicate with you. You also have a call bell to let the staff know if you are having any problems during the procedure.

5. During the scanning process, a clicking noise will sound as the magnetic field is created and pulses of radio waves are sent from the scanner. You may be given headphones to wear to help block out the noises from the MRI scanner and hear any messages or instructions from the technologist.

6. It is important that you remain very still during the examination.

7. At intervals, you may be instructed to hold your breath for a few seconds, depending on the body part being examined. You should not have to hold your breath longer than a few seconds, so this should not be uncomfortable

Reminders Before the Examination

Tell the radiologist if you are claustrophobic and think that you will be unable to lie still while inside the scanning machine; if you have a pacemaker inserted, or have had heart valves replaced; if you have metal plates, pins, metal implants, surgical staples, or aneurysm clips; if you have permanent eye liner; if you are pregnant; if you ever had a bullet wound; or if you have ever worked with metal (i.e., a metal grinder).



ValleyCare’s mammography services are certified by the American College of Radiology.

Mammography is an X-ray of the breasts. Screening mammograms are used to detect breast changes in women who have no signs of breast cancer. A diagnostic mammogram is used to detect and diagnose breast disease in women with problems such as lumps, nipple discharge or pain. It is also used to detect cancers, benign tumors and cysts before they can be felt by touch. Mammography cannot prove that an abnormal area is cancer, but if it raises a suspicion of cancer, a biopsy can be performed to determine if it is cancer.

Women’s Imaging Center

Designed by women for women, ValleyCare Health System’s Women’s Imaging Center offers the latest in digital mammography equipment. The center provides a relaxed and soothing environment where women have more privacy and the state-of-the-art digital equipment gives radiologists immediate access to mammogram images.

ValleyCare relocated the Women’s Imaging Center to the ValleyCare Medical Plaza, 5725 W. Las Positas Blvd., Suite 120 in Pleasanton.  Conveniently located in the same building as the Regional Cancer Center at ValleyCare and the ValleyCare Health Library, it provides women dealing with cancer easier access to information, diagnostics and treatment. 

The Women’s Imaging Center has expanded hours to include evenings and Saturdays as needed, making it easier to schedule your mammogram. To schedule an appointment in either Pleasanton or Livermore, please call the Diagnostic Imaging scheduling line (925) 734-3376.

Digital  Mammography

ValleyCare provides the latest in digital mammography at both the Women’s Imaging Center in Pleasanton and at the ValleyCare Medical Plaza on the Livermore campus.

Digital Mammography technology significantly improves image quality particularly in younger women and those with dense breasts.  Since digital technology allows for higher contrast resolution of the image, the radiologist can zoom in on a suspicious area to look for calcifications and other abnormalities that might not be otherwise easily seen.  While the mammography process (compression and x-ray) is the same for a woman whether the image is acquired on film or digitally, another great benefit is the speed of processing.  Radiologists agree that digital technology improves the image quality and renders mammography interpretation more accurate.

Who should get a routine screening mammogram?

An annual mammography screening is recommended for:

	Women of any age with a history of breast cancer
	Women of any age at an increased risk -- risk increases with: lumpy breasts, never been pregnant, first pregnancy after age 30, genetic susceptibility or a family history of breast cancer
	Women in their 40s or older

What does a mammogram show?

A mammogram helps identify the following conditions:

	Calicfications: are tiny mineral deposits within the breast tissue. Course calcifications usually indicate degenerative changes in the breasts such as: aging, old injuries, inflammations. Microcalcifications are very tiny and when many are seen in one area they are referred to as a cluster
	Masses: may occur with or without calcifications and may indicate: a cyst, benign breast conditions or breast cancer

How is a mammogram performed?

Mammograms are normally performed on an outpatient basis, but can be a part of inpatient care. There is no specific preparation for a mammogram, except you should not wear deodorant, powders or lotions under your arms on the day of your mammogram as these can interfere with images.

Generally a mammogram procedure is as follows:

	You should first describe any symptoms or problems (if any) to the technologist
	You will undress from the waist up and be given a gown to wear
	You will be positioned at the mammography unit and your breast positioned between two plates of the unit. You will be asked to hold your breath while pressure is applied to compress the breast tissue for a few seconds. (You may experience slight discomfort.) Compression is needed to obtain good images with the least amount of radiation possible
	Each breast will be x-rayed from at least two different angles
	Once the x-rays are developed, you will be asked to wait for a short time until the radiologist can review the films and determine if additional x-rays are necessary

For routine screenings, physician referral is not required. Mammography is available in Livermore and Pleasanton. Saturday appointments are available for your convenience in Pleasanton.

Stereotactic Breast Biopsy
Stereotactic biopsy is the least invasive way to diagnose breast cancer when an abnormality is seen on a mammogram. Using specialized stereoscopic technology, X-rays and local anesthetic, a small nick is made in the skin and a sample obtained without undergoing surgery. Offered in Pleasanton only.



Nuclear medicine uses small amounts of radioactive compounds to check the function of various parts inside your body, such as your heart, gall bladder, thyroid, kidneys and skeleton. This technology is also used to diagnose and treat thyroid disorders without the need for surgery. Offered in Pleasanton only. Physician referral required.



A PET/CT scan merges the technologies of PET and CT into a single machine. PET is an acronym for Positron Emission Tomography. PET is a test that uses special imaging cameras and a radioactive type of sugar to produce pictures of the function and metabolism of cells in the body. CT stands for Computerized Tomography. CT is an x-ray that generates a detailed view of the anatomy or structure of organs and tissues in the body. A CT scan can show the dimension of vessels, lymph nodes and organ systems. By merging these two technologies into PET/CT, scans provide a picture of function (PET), a picture of anatomy (CT) and a merged picture of both the body’s metabolism and structure, which enables physicians to more accurately diagnose and identify cancer, heart disease and brain disorders.

Preparation

There is very little preparation required for a PET/CT scan. Typically you will fast for 6-8 hours prior to the exam, but you may drink water. If you are taking medication, please consult with your physician before the exam. You should avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours before your appointment.

The Exam

You will receive a small injection of radioactive sugar before the exam and be asked to sit or lay down for about 30-60 minutes while the sugar travels through your body. A technologist will then assist you to the scanner. The CT portion is conducted first, followed by the PET portion. You may be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds during the procedure. It is important that you remain still for the duration of the scan. Most scans typically take 20-40 minutes. PET/CT is available in Pleasanton only, every Tuesday and Wednesday. Physician referral required.



The function of the heart is tested by looking for EKG changes in the patient while exercising on a treadmill under the supervision of a cardiologist. To improve the quality of the test, this is often done with nuclear medicine technology that also analyzes the pumping function of the heart. Offered in Pleasanton only. Physician referral required.



ValleyCare’s Sonography services have been certified by the American College of Radiology.

Ultrasound is a non-invasive diagnostic procedure used to assess blood flow through vessels, soft tissue such as muscle and organs. Ultrasounds procedures are often used to examine many parts of the body such as the abdomen, breasts, female pelvis, prostate, thyroid and vascular system. During pregnancy, ultrasounds are used to evaluate the development of the fetus.

Ultrasound uses sound waves to produce images. When a transducer is placed at certain angles on the skin, ultrasonic sound waves move through the skin and bounce off organs and other structures and return to the transducer. The transducer picks up the reflected sound waves, which are converted by a computer into an electronic picture. A clear conducting gel placed on the skin is used to allow for smooth movement of the transducer over the skin. Ultrasound is offered in both Livermore and Pleasanton. Physician referral required.



X-Rays use invisible electromagnetic energy beams to produce images of internal tissues, bones and organs on film. X-rays are used for many reasons including diagnosing tumors and bone injuries. Offered in both Livermore and Pleasanton. Physician referral required.