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An MRI technician speaks with a patient about AdventHealth's advanced cancer imaging technology before she enters an MRI

Imaging That Sees It All, So We Can Treat It All

When it comes to our medical imaging services, we arm your medical team with some of the sharpest, clearest, and fastest technology in CT Scans, MRIs, PET-CTs, and beyond.

Understanding Your Medical Imaging Options

Computerized Tomography (CT or CT Scans)

Whatever your diagnosis, wherever you are, you’re the same person you were yesterday. You’re someone with plans to fulfill, a family to love, and a future to live. But now, you’re also someone who needs answers. Answers that can save your life, and tell your medical team where and how to treat your type of cancer. Our CT scans show your doctors precise 3D images of your brain, heart, stomach, bones, and blood vessels. With these, your team can measure your progress, customize your treatments, and put restoring your whole health in our sights.

How a CT Scan Works

CT scans are painless and take about 30 minutes. This doughnut-shaped scanner uses carefully measured amounts of radiation to snap pictures, so you may hear a slight buzzing or clicking.

How to prepare for a CT scan:

  • Remove any metallic or other items and all jewelry.
  • Depending on what type of CT scan you’re getting, you may not be able to eat or drink three hours before your test.
  • Before, during and after your CT scan, we’re here to accommodate every request, whether you need back and leg cushions, music, or a mild sedative if small spaces make you uneasy.
MRI or Magnetic Resonance Imaging Explained

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) digitally maps nearly every body part and structure, so you and your team know exactly how to target your cancer treatment. This type of scan doesn’t require radiation like some other tests, so you’ll have a safer experience and greater peace of mind.

How an MRI Works

Your comfort is our priority, so you can request an oversized MRI machine with wider openings, unobstructed sides and plenty of breathing room.

How to prepare for an MRI:

  • MRIs use powerful magnets, so be sure to remove any jewelry and hearing aids beforehand.
  • If you have an implanted metal coil or cardiac pacemaker, be sure to let your doctor know to see if you’re still eligible for an MRI.
  • You’ll hear tapping or thumping during your procedure (we have lab-approved headsets available upon request)
PET-CT Scans Explained

To deliver healing, locate specific cells, and target cancer, sometimes you and your doctors need full-color medical imaging. PET paired with a CT scan provides the most detailed pictures of bones, organs, and tissues, all in bright 3D neon for more clarity.

How a PET-CT Scan Works

PET-CTs see cells through an intravenous sugar containing a radiotracer — a safe, sugary liquid that tricks cancer into coming out of hiding and makes it light up the screen. These scans typically last less than two hours.

How to prepare for an PET-CT scan:

  • Avoid eating or drinking several hours in advance of your procedure.
  • We’re happy to provide warm blankets, socks, and cushions for your back or legs upon request.

What To Expect From Medical Imaging

You’re here to get definitive answers. We’re here to make the process smoother and more comfortable with non- and minimally-invasive imaging procedures. Before your test, we’ll work with you so you know what to expect and how to prepare. Our compassionate nurses will start by asking about any illnesses, allergies, medical implants, and medications. Each test is different, so it’s possible you may be asked to fast or take a laxative for clearer, more effective pictures. On the day of your appointment, please wear loose clothing and leave your jewelry at home.

You may be given a hospital gown to wear throughout your testing experience. To highlight certain areas on screen, you might receive an IV or be asked to drink a “contrasting” liquid. Many tests use big machinery that makes noise, so if you’re claustrophobic or feel uncomfortable, let us know and we’ll do our best to help you feel at ease. Know that most tests are painless and take under an hour. And afterward, your medical team will know more — and be better able to guide you back to wellness.

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A nurse navigator smiles as she speaks with a patient who lying in bed about Florida Hospital's advanced cancer imaging technology

Personalized Patient Navigation

You’re always supported. And you’ll always know what’s ahead. Your Nurse Navigator will coordinate and communicate every detail of your care, from setting up every appointment to helping you understand what to expect before, during, and after your treatments.

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