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How long does it take?
Most radiographic studies take approximately 10 to 15 minutes, some studies may be more involved and require additional time.
Does it hurt?
The exam itself is relatively painless, depending on the patient’s condition.
When will my doctor receive the results?
Results will take approximately two to three working days. |
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How much radiation am I receiving?
Typically, exposure is less than sun exposure on a day at the beach.
What is x-ray?
Diagnostic x-ray uses radiation to take images within the body. The images may identify healthy or abnormal conditions. It is often the only way to detect causes of certain health problems.
What should I know about it?
X-ray is often useful in determining healthy or abnormal conditions. It can also indicate if further testing is needed.
Is x-ray safe?
Any x-ray procedure has risk of radiation. The high-speed x-ray film used allows only a minimal amount of radiation.
How does x-ray work?
A machine sends x-rays through your body to produce an image on film.
What can x-ray evaluate?
* X-rays of the chest - Conditions of heart and lungs such as pneumonia, enlarged heart or TB.
* Fractures of bones - The primary reasons for x-rays.
* Foreign bodies - Coins, metal, wood, and glass. Foreign bodies may sometimes hide behind bones or other structures causing them to not visualize on x-rays.
* Relationships between bone and adjacent soft tissues.
During pregnancy
If possible, x-ray near the abdomen should be avoided during pregnancy. Shielding of the abdomen during pregnancy makes other types x-rays safe. Patients should always declare their pregnancy to the technologist before having an x-ray.
What can I expect from an exam?
The following are explanations of a "typical" exam. Exams may differ based on the individual patient.
Positioning - A technologist will help position you in an upright or horizontal position, depending on the part of the body to be x-rayed.
Images - The technologist will leave the room for brief periods to make changes to the equipment settings on the control panel. You may be instructed to hold your breath for some x-rays while the images are being taken since any movement will blur the image.
How should I prepare?
If the area to be x-rayed has previously been x-rayed, bring the previous x-rays with you or inform the technologist where the previous x-rays were taken. The current and previous images will be compared. For more information, click Preparations. |
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