Imaging services

One of the first steps in treating any condition is an accurate diagnosis. St. Mark’s Hospital's radiology imaging services encompass a range of modalities using various imaging technologies. These methods help diagnose and treat illnesses by providing detailed images of the body’s internal structures, aiding our healthcare professionals in making informed decisions about your care. Many imaging tests are noninvasive, easy and painless.

At St. Mark’s Hospital Imaging, we are dedicated to patient satisfaction and providing our patients with the best imaging experience.

Our convenient, comprehensive imaging services include:

• Same-day appointments
• Complete imaging services, including CT, MRI, ultrasound, X-ray, interventional radiology and nuclear medicine
• Fast report turnaround times
• Competitive rates
• Convenient locations and easy access.
• ACR and IAC-accredited modalities
• Extended hours at Millcreek and St. Mark’s Hospital

To schedule an appointment at one of our four locations, call (801) 268-7900.

St. Mark’s Hospital - Main Campus
1200 East 3900 South
Salt Lake City, Utah 84106
(801) 268-7166

St. Mark’s Hospital – Millcreek Imaging Center
3738 South 900 East
Salt Lake City, Utah 84106
(801) 313-1955

St. Mark’s Hospital – Taylorsville Emergency Center
2675 West Taylorsville Blvd
Taylorsville, Utah 84129
(801) 982-0045

St. Mark’s Hospital – West Valley Emergency
5668 West Brud Dr.
West Valley City, Utah 84128
(801) 542-9286

Additional services

Computed tomography scan (CT or CAT scan)

A CT scan combines X-ray equipment with computers to produce multiple images of the inside of your body.  CT exams produce detailed organ studies by stacking individual image slices.

What should I expect during a CT procedure?

You will be asked to lie on the table while the CT technologist positions you for the desired study area. While the images are being acquired, the table will move through the scanner's large opening. The X-ray tube will rotate around you, taking several images of your body. It is important to hold still to obtain clear diagnostic images.  Some exams may require you to hold your breath for a few seconds to eliminate all motion.

It is common for CT exams to be ordered with contrast. Contrast material improves the examined organ's visibility. Contrast is injected into the vein and sometimes makes you feel warm or flush for a short period; contrast can also be taken orally before your exam begins. Some tests require the use of both oral and IV contrast.

How long does the exam take?

Most exams take 15-20 minutes to complete, except for oral contrast exams that require a one-hour wait before scanning.

What should I do before the exam?

Preparations are minimal. You may be asked not to eat or drink for four to six hours before the exam. Every exam is different, and each patient will receive specific instructions prior to the examination.

How do I get my results?

Your results will be available to your physician as early as 24-48 hours after your exam.  You can access your medical records through MyChart.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

An MRI uses a magnetic field, radio frequency waves and a computer to produce a very clear image of the structures inside your body.

What should I expect during an MRI?

Once positioned in the scanner, you will hear loud knocking sounds. The technologist provides hearing protection to help block the loud noises and communicate with you throughout the exam.  You must hold still to obtain clear images. MRIs are a non-invasive, painless procedure. You may receive a contrast agent through a simple IV before or during the exam to better visualize parts of your body.

How long does the exam take?

Most exams last between 30 to 60 minutes.

How should I prepare for an MRI?             

It is essential to know metal interferes with the MRI equipment. On exam day, you will be asked to refrain from wearing anything that may contain metal. If you have a pacemaker, aneurysm clips, pins or metallic implants or are pregnant, be sure to advise your doctor and the MRI technologist.

How do I get my results?

Your results will be available to your physician as early as 24-48 hours after your exam.  You can access your medical records through MyChart.

X-ray and fluoroscopy

X-ray imaging uses a small amount of ionizing radiation and specialized computer equipment to produce images of bones, tissues, organs and vessels. X-rays often detect bone or joint problems or check the heart and lungs.

Fluoroscopy is imaging that shows a continuous X-ray image on a monitor, like an X-ray movie.

What should I expect during an X-ray?

The technologist will position your body to get the necessary views. During the X-ray exposure, you remain still and may be asked to hold your breath to avoid blurring the image.

Depending on what exam is being completed, contrast media may be used during fluoroscopy.

How long does the exam take?

On average, X-rays take less than 15 minutes. Most X-ray exams require multiple views taken at different angles to provide as much information as possible.

How do I get my results?

Your results will be available to your physician as early as 24-48 hours after your exam.  You can access your medical records through MyChart.

Full-body standing X-ray

An EOS scan is a type of full-body X-ray that acquires two images simultaneously in a standing or seated position. It is commonly used to assess posture, scoliosis progression, spine, hip, and knee injury, and leg length discrepancy. This scan uses a radiation dose setting that automatically adjusts radiation based on the patient’s body structure and BMI. The exam is quick and easy and lasts only four minutes or less.

Ultrasound

An ultrasound is a fast, non-invasive procedure used to detect many diseases and disorders in the body at any angle. The reflection of sound waves against your internal organs and tissues produces ultrasound images.

What should I expect during an ultrasound?

The ultrasound technologist manually moves a hand-held transducer around the area of interest and applies gel to the designated area to ensure good contact between the transducers and the body.

How long does an ultrasound exam take?

Most exams last two to three minutes.  More in-depth exams can take up to an hour to complete

How do I prepare for the exam?

Depending on your anatomy, you may not be asked to eat or drink before the exam. The scheduler will provide specific instructions as you schedule your appointment. 

How do I get my results?

Your results will be available to your physician as early as 24-48 hours after your exam.  You can access your medical records through MyChart.

Nuclear medicine

Nuclear medicine imaging is performed using special cameras called gamma cameras. These cameras create unique images to evaluate the body’s physiology or function.

What should I expect during a nuclear medicine study?

Depending on the type of nuclear medicine exam, the radiotracer dose is injected intravenously, swallowed, or inhaled as a gas. You will be positioned on the examination table where the technologist may start an IV in your hand or arm.

While the camera is taking pictures, you must remain still. Sometimes, the camera may move close to your body or around you. If you are claustrophobic, please inform the technologist before the exam begins.

How long does the exam take?

The length of time for a nuclear medicine procedure varies greatly depending on the type of exam. The actual scan time can take 20 minutes to several hours. Some studies are conducted over several days and require multiple visits.

How should I prepare for a nuclear medicine study?

Proper patient prep is critical for nuclear medicine exams, and the prep varies depending on the study ordered. If you are already scheduled for a nuclear medicine study and have not been given instructions, call the nuclear medicine department at (801) 268-7019.

How do I get my results?

Your results will be available to your physician as early as 24-48 hours after your exam.  You can access your medical records through MyChart.

Interventional radiology

Interventional radiology is used to treat a wide range of conditions in the body by inserting various small tools, such as catheters or wires, from outside the body. This innovative technology can be used instead of surgery for many conditions and, in some cases, eliminate the need for hospitalization.

What should I expect during an IR procedure?

In IR procedures, interventional radiologists use an imaging technique, such as ultrasound or fluoroscopy, to produce real-time images. Some cases require sedation, while others can be completed without any sedation at all.

How long does the procedure last?

The length of time for each procedure varies.  Once your procedure is complete, you will be moved into a recovery room and monitored for 15 minutes to three hours, depending on the type of procedure.

How do I get my results?

Your results will be available to your physician as early as 24-48 hours after your exam.  You can access your medical records through MyChart.

Your test and treatment experience

Our focus at St. Mark’s Hospital is you trust us with your care, knowing:

• We protect your privacy
• We keep you informed
• You feel safe and comfortable
• Our facility is clean

And our staff works together to provide excellent care