X-ray
Diagnostic Procedures

Mammograms, computed tomography (CT) scans and traditional X-rays are often used to locate tumors. Dense tissue, such as bones, block X-rays and appear white on images, compared to air-filled lungs that show up black and organ tissue that displays images in shades of gray. Because tumors are often more dense than surrounding tissue, they block X-rays and appear lighter than surrounding tissue.

Sutter Cancer Centers use digital X-ray technology that provides crisper images and allows doctors to zoom in and enhance the images to help detect subtle differences. Because digital images can be stored, transmitted and retrieved electronically, doctors can more easily consult with other specialists over distances while simultaneously viewing the same image.

For information on X-ray testing for a specific area of the body, go to our Health Information section and type "X-ray" into the search box. Additional information is available from the National Cancer Institute (www.cancer.gov), including a special section on cancer imaging at imaging.cancer.gov.