At UPMC Imaging Services, we aim to make your test as easy and stress-free as possible.
Our friendly staff will work closely with you and your health care team to make your imaging appointment. We'll also tell you how to prep for your imaging test and what to expect during the procedure.
Our scheduling team makes it easy to set up an imaging appointment at a time and place that works best for you.
We have more than 100 imaging centers throughout Pennsylvania, western New York, and western Maryland. Contact the one closest to you to make an appointment.
When you make your appointment, let us know:
Your doctor will likely give you pre-test instructions on how to get ready for your imaging procedure. Be sure to ask them if you need to stop taking any medications before your test.
The UPMC Imaging team will provide you with a description of each test, including:
On the day of your scheduled test:
When you get to the testing site, our receptionist will greet you. We'll let your imaging technologist know of your arrival and will start the test as soon as we can.
Below are some basic guidelines for preparing for each type of imaging procedure we offer. They may vary by location.
If you have questions, call the UPMC Imaging site where you have an appointment.
Ask your doctor or call the imaging center where you're having your test for any pre-scan instructions.
Please inform us of any metal in your body when you make your appointment. We'll give you details on any other steps you should take to prepare for your MRI scan.
On the day of your scan, you will:
The UPMC Imaging team will give you pre-test prep instructions when you make your appointment.
Study times vary in length, but you should plan for three hours. In most cases, you should have nothing by mouth for five hours before your appointment.
Generally, you should have nothing by mouth for six hours before your appointment. This includes chewing gum and smoking cigarettes.
In some cases, you may need to drink fluids until one hour before your test to fill your bladder.
Do not empty your bladder until after the test.
No special pre-test prep is necessary.
Please try to get your prior mammogram films and reports and bring them with you to your appointment.
Do not use powders, talcs, sprays, or deodorants on your breasts and under your arms.
Wait one week to have a DXA scan if you've had any:
If you've scheduled any of those tests on the same day as your DXA scan, you must have the DXA first.
Do not eat or drink anything after 10 p.m. the night before your exam. This includes chewing gum.
We will give you details on how to prep when you make your appointment.
Please call the UPMC Imaging center for specific instructions for:
Study times vary in length.
You can leave UPMC Imaging once your test is complete unless your doctor says otherwise.
Your doctor should receive your test results within 24 hours. They'll contact you about your results unless you already scheduled a follow-up appointment or made other arrangements with their office.
You can also access your imaging test results through your UPMC patient portal account.
Call your doctor's office if you have questions about your test results.