Imaging Services

X-ray images are typically captured to help diagnose disease and/or issues with the musculoskeletal system. An image is made by radiation in the form of X-rays passing through the body. The image is recorded digitally and available instantly. University of Rochester Medicine Radiologists then interpret the images and generate a report that is provided to your physician/provider. X-ray services are available 24 hours/day at the hospital.

Meet Our Radiologist

Li-Hsiang Yen, MD

Mammography uses a dedicated digital X-ray machine to capture images of breast tissue. Regular mammograms are important in detecting breast cancer and other breast diseases. Mammograms should be performed annually per American Cancer Society guidelines. Biopsies, needle localizations, and cyst aspirations are done by recommendation of a radiologist. Mammography is often used in collaboration with ultrasound.  St. James offers the latest in 3D mammography, which provides clearer images especially for people with dense breast tissue. 3D mammography makes it easier for physicians to detect abnormalities, such as breast cancer and calcifications. To make an appointment at our Womens Imaging & Breast Center, please call
(607) 247-2218. Walk-in mammograms are also welcome.

Screening mammograms are covered by insurance and no co-pay is required. People who are not covered by insurance may contact Cancer Services Program at (607) 385-3933 or (877) 778-6857. 

Breast ultrasound uses ultrasonography (sound waves) to image the breast. If an abnormality is seen on mammography or felt by physical exam, ultrasound is the best way to find out if the abnormality is solid (such as a benign fibroadenoma or cancer) or fluid-filled (such as a benign cyst). It cannot determine whether a solid lump is cancerous, nor can it detect calcifications.

A breast biopsy is performed when a suspicious finding is discovered either by mammography or ultrasound; these biopsies are performed on site at the St. James Women’s Imaging & Breast Center.

DEXA is an enhanced form of X-ray used to measure bone loss (osteoporosis). Typically, images of the lower spine and hips are captured with a dedicated machine, and a specialized computer system generates a report on total bone loss.

With the opening of the new St. James Hospital, we are equipped with brand-new state-of-the-art imaging equipment, including a 64-slice CT scanner.  CT scans are X-ray beams that rotate through narrow sections of the body. Many scans are taken in a short period of time and produce multiple images. A computer reconstructs the scans to produce two- and three-dimensional images. Typical CT scans are captured of the head, chest, abdomen, and pelvis. The test can involve drinking contrast solution and/or IV contrast administration, which helps capture a better image. CT services are available on-site 24 hours/day.

Our new in-house fixed MRI unit provides state-of-the-art imaging.  MRI tests use a strong magnetic field, radio waves, and computers to create images.  The MRI machine is cylindrical and creates a magnetic field around the patient. MRI is utilized in situations where organs or soft tissues are being studied; it does not use radiation. When examining the blood vessels, the MRI performs a specialized type of exam called an MRA (Magnetic Resonance Angiography). The MRI unit is a Phillips Ambition 1.5T. Interpretations are provided by the University of Rochester imaging team.

The MRI environment is calming and spacious and allows the patient to listen to music of their choice.

Stress Echo Test patient instructions

Ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images. Doppler ultrasound may be used during the test. Doppler ultrasound is a technique that evaluates blood flow through a blood vessel. Typical ultrasound exams capture images from the abdomen (including during pregnancy), heart, gallbladder, breast, kidneys, arteries and veins.  Often, a stress test is performed in conjunction with ultrasound.

A pelvic ultrasound uses sounds waves to assess organs and structures within the female pelvis, including the uterus, cervix, vagina, fallopian tubes and ovaries. An obstetric ultrasound produces pictures of a baby (embryo or fetus), as well as the mother's uterus and ovaries. St. James has invested in new machines that include all the technological advances in obstetric ultrasound imaging. We are able to capture 3D images of your baby. Our technology does not use ionizing radiation, has no known harmful effects, and is the preferred method for monitoring pregnant women and their unborn babies. The Women's Imaging and Breast Center accommodates all OB patients.

As part of its expanding Imaging capabilities, St. James has state-of-the-art C-arms, which are high-tech devices used by physicians to guide surgical instruments.  The C-arms capture live images during surgical procedures.   They provide high-resolution X-ray images immediately, which allow the physician to monitor progress at any point to make any immediate corrections.  C-arms are used during pain management cases, general surgery and orthopedic procedures.