Also known as a radiograph, an x-ray is a painless medical test that helps physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions. Radiography involves exposing a part of the body to a small dose of ionizing radiation to produce pictures of the inside of the body. X-rays are the oldest and most frequently used form of medical imaging.

 

X-rays are especially useful in the detection of pathology of the skeletal system (bones), but are also useful for detecting some disease processes in soft tissue. A notable example of this is the very common chest X-ray, which can be used to identify lung diseases such as pneumonia or lung cancer.

 

Common uses of general x-ray

• Determine whether a bone has been fractured or if a joint is dislocated
• Ensure that a fracture has been properly aligned and stabilized for healing following treatment
• Determine whether there is a buildup of fluid in the joint or around a bone
• Evaluate injury or damage from conditions such as infection, arthritis, abnormal bone growths or other bone diseases, such as osteoporosis
• Assist in the detection and diagnosis of cancer
• Locate foreign objects
• Evaluate changes in bones

Preparation for the examination

 

X-rays require no special preparation.

 

You may be asked to remove some or all of your clothes and to wear scrubs or a gown during the examination. You may also be asked to remove jewelry, eye glasses and any metal objects or clothing that might interfere with the x-ray images.  Lockers are available to store your personal items while you have your examination however, it is recommended that you leave your valuable items at home.

 

Women should always inform their physician or x-ray technologist if there is any possibility that they are pregnant. Because radiation can be harmful to the fetus, we do not perform x-rays during pregnancy.

 

During the examination

 

You will be asked to lie on an x-ray table or stand up next to a wall unit, depending on the type of examination being performed. The technologist will put you in the proper position needed.  When necessary, sandbags or pillows will be used to help you hold the proper position. A lead apron may be placed over the patient's pelvic area to protect it from radiation.  A digital recording plate is then placed under the table in the area of the body part being imaged.

 

You must hold very still and may be asked to keep from breathing for a few seconds while the x-ray picture is taken to reduce the possibility of a blurred image. The technologist will walk behind a wall to activate the x-ray machine.

You may be repositioned for another view and the process is repeated. At least two images (from different angles) will be taken and often three images are needed if the problem is around a joint (knee, elbow or wrist).

 

When the examination is complete, you will be asked to wait until the technologist determines that the images are processed and prepared for the radiologist to read.

 

An x-ray examination is usually completed within 15 to 20 minutes.

 

Results of the examination

 

Our board certified radiologist will review and interpret your x-rays.  A written report of the radiologist’s findings will be sent to your physician who will discuss the results with you.