Diagnostic Imaging
Sutter Amador Hospital (209) 223-7560

CT Scan – Computed Tomography
Computed Tomography (CT) combines a series of X-ray views taken from many different angles to produce cross-sectional images of the bones and soft tissue inside your body. It is a non-invasive procedure that offers exceptional image quality of different diseases, organs or abnormalities. Our state-of-the-art CT scanner also provides our Emergency Room physicians with a quick and accurate diagnosis for trauma victims.

Available outpatient appointments for CT
Weekdays: 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.
To make an appointment or for more information, call (209) 223-7560.

DEXA Scan
A Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) scan – also called a bone density scan – is a reliable way to measure bone mineral density to determine stages of osteoporosis in both men and women. A bone density test uses a low dose X-ray to measure how many grams of calcium and other bone minerals are packed into a segment of bone. Early detection of calcium loss in bone can help direct preventative treatment to avert fractures as we age.

Available outpatient appointments for DEXA
Monday, Tuesday and Friday: 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Wednesday and Thursday: 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
To make an appointment or for more information, call (209) 223-7560.

Echocardiogram
An echocardiogram uses sound waves to produce images of your heart. This commonly used test allows your doctor to examine the size, shape and function of the heart. Your doctor can use the images from an echocardiogram to identify various abnormalities in the heart muscle and valves.  

Available outpatient appointments for Echocardiogram
Monday, Wednesday and Friday: 8:15 a.m. – 11:30 p.m.
To make an appointment or for more information, call (209) 223-7560.

Mammography
Mammography is the most effective way to detect breast cancer in its earliest and most treatable stage. It uses low-dose amplitude X-rays to examine the human breast and is used as a diagnostic as well as a screening tool. Sutter Amador Hospital uses digital mammography, which allows for faster and more accurate results, shorter examination times, and significantly improved patient comfort and convenience. Our licensed mammography technologists have a combined total of over 90 years of experience. Sutter Amador Hospital’s Mammography program is ACR Accredited.

Available outpatient appointments for Mammography
Monday - Thursday: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Friday: 8 a.m. – 3:40 p.m.
To make an appointment or for more information, call (209) 223-7560.

Computer-Aided-Detection
Computer-Aided-Detection (CAD) technology works like a second pair of eyes, reviewing a patient’s mammogram film after the radiologist has already made an initial interpretation. If the computer software detects any breast abnormalities or “regions of interest” on the mammography film it marks them. The radiologist can then go back and review the mammogram film again to determine whether the marked areas are suspicious and require further examination (with either additional imaging or biopsy).

MRI – Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is used to image every part of the body, and is particularly useful for neurological conditions, disorders of the muscles and joints, tumors, and for showing abnormalities in the heart and blood vessels. It uses a powerful magnet (not radiation) with an advanced computer system and radio waves to produce highly detailed images of the body and changes in tissue chemistry.  MRI of the head enables the diagnosis of stroke, tumors and vascular anomalies and can evaluate structures such as the pituitary gland and optic nerves. The MRI unit at Sutter Amador Hospital is state-of-the-art and consists of a short bore magnet which does not enclose the entire body.  This helps lessen the incidence of claustrophobia. Our licensed technologists have a combined total of over 30 years of experience. Sutter Amador Hospital’s MRI program is ACR Accredited.

Available outpatient appointments for MRI
Weekdays: 8:15 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
To make an appointment or for more information, call (209) 223-7560.

Nuclear Medicine
Nuclear medicine provides diagnostic information by using very small amounts of radioactive material to diagnose or treat a variety of diseases, including many types of cancers, heart disease and certain other abnormalities within the body. Our nationally board-certified nuclear medicine technologists have a combined total of over 50 years of experience.

Available outpatient appointments for Nuclear Medicine
Weekdays: 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Saturday: 8 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
To make an appointment or for more information, call (209) 223-7560.

Ultrasound
Ultrasound is a simple, safe and painless diagnostic technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to visualize muscles, tendons, and many internal organs, their size, structure and any pathological lesions with real time images.  Ultrasound is used to provide diagnostic information for obstetrics, vascular and general abdominal studies as well as guidance for biopsies and other interventional procedures. 

Available outpatient appointments for Ultrasound
Weekdays: 8 a.m. – 6:45 p.m.
To make an appointment or for more information, call (209) 223-7560.

X-ray
An X-ray is a quick, painless test that produces images of the structures inside your body – particularly your bones. For some types of X-ray tests, contrast medium – such as iodine or barium – is introduced into your body to provide greater detail on the X-ray images. Digital X-rays provide immediate image preview and an overall enhanced image for your care provider.

To make an appointment or for more information, call (209) 223-7560