Diagnostic X-ray

What is an X-ray (Radiography)?

An X-ray (radiograph) is a noninvasive medical test that helps physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions. Imaging with X-rays 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.

A bone X-ray makes images of any bone in the body, including the hand, wrist, arm, elbow, shoulder, foot, ankle, leg (shin), knee, thigh, hip, pelvis or spine.

How should I prepare?

Most X-rays require no special preparation.

You may be asked to remove some or all of your clothes and to wear a gown during the exam. You may also be asked to remove jewelry, dentures, eye glasses and any metal objects or clothing that might interfere with the X-ray images.

Women should always inform their physician and X-ray technologist if there is any possibility that they are pregnant. Many imaging tests are not performed during pregnancy so as not to expose the fetus to radiation. If an X-ray is necessary, precautions will be taken to minimize radiation exposure to the baby.

Offered at: Beckley, Harlan, Hazard, McDowell, Middlesboro, Morgan County , Summers County, Whitesburg, Williamson, & MMIC (www.mmic1.com)

Resource: http://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info.cfm?pg=bonerad