Imaging Center | HCA Florida Pasadena Hospital

Diagnostic imaging in St. Petersburg, Florida

We are committed to investing in the future of imaging so you have access to quicker, more comfortable procedures.

At HCA Florida Pasadena Hospital, our advanced imaging services allow physicians to view inside the human body more clearly than ever before. Our imaging equipment enables doctors to diagnose and treat disease quickly and with superior precision. Our hospital also uses a fully digital imaging system. This lets your doctor have immediate access to your imaging results from anywhere — at home, in the office or at the hospital.

Screening mammogram

You can now schedule a screening mammogram online.

Schedule a Mammogram

Medical imaging services

We diagnose diseases and injuries with a range of medical imaging technologies, such as:

Computerized tomography (CT) scanning (64-slice) — This type of scan creates detailed views of targeted areas in the body, such as the brain, heart, bones and other internal organs. It also produces individual images, or "slices," to create 3D images.
Digital mammography — Our breast health program includes digital mammograms for the screening and early detection of breast cancer. We use soft, cushioned pads on mammography equipment to increase patient comfort.
Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) — This type of scan is also referred to as bone density testing. It is used to screen for and diagnose osteoporosis.
Fluoroscopy — Performed in our hospital's dedicated Radiographic/Fluoroscopic Unit, this imaging exam is used for upper gastrointestinal and barium studies. It can be used to detect the underlying cause of digestive disorders. It can also be used in identifying spinal cord abnormalities, fractures of vertebrae and certain internal organ functions.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) — This technology uses on radio waves, computer technology and a strong magnetic field. It produces high-definition, 3D images of internal organs and body structures.
Nuclear medicine — This imaging method uses low, safe levels of a radioactive substance to highlight certain functions or structures in the body. This process uses special cameras that scan the targeted area and detect disease by recognizing metabolic changes caused by the radioactive substance.
Ultrasound — This technology uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of the inside of the body. These images can display on a computer screen so your doctors can easily examine them.
X-ray imaging — This is the most traditional form of imaging and is often used to identify broken bones.

Diagnostic imaging for speech pathology

The speech language therapists in our rehabilitation department use advanced medical imaging to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of vocal dysfunction. Our hospital is equipped with computerized laryngeal videostroboscopy technology, which allows for the visualization of the vocal cords and their vibrations.

Additionally, we perform barium swallow studies as a tool in diagnosing swallowing disorders. This test uses barium — which you ingest — to create detailed, X-ray images of the upper gastrointestinal tract, including the esophagus.

Preparing for imaging services

If you have a scheduled imaging procedure, please discuss the procedure and special instructions with your referring physician prior to arrival.

If a test is ordered while you are a patient at our hospital, your physician, nurse or technologist will be available to explain the procedure and answer any questions.

However, in general, you can expect to follow these general guidelines:

Wear loose-fitting clothes. (Some patients may be asked to change into a hospital gown.)
Do not wear items containing metal. (Some patients may be asked to remove jewelry, watches, hairpins, eyeglasses and/or dentures.)
Tell your technologist if there is a chance you are pregnant or if you are breastfeeding.
Tell your technologist if you are allergic to shellfish or iodine.
Ask your doctor if your test requires you to go without eating or drinking prior to the procedure.

What to expect at our imaging center

Our imaging center is designed to maximize your comfort, and our friendly staff is committed to making your experience at our hospital pleasant. For your convenience, we offer: