Diagnostic X-rays (Radiographs)

• How do X-rays work?
• What are some common uses of X-rays?
• How should I prepare?
• How are the X-rays performed?
What will I experience during the X-rays?
Who will interpret the X-rays?
Is it safe to get X-rays (radiographs)?


How do X-rays work?

X-rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation like light or radio waves. 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. .

What are some common uses of X-rays?

X-rays are the oldest and most frequently used form of medical imaging. X-rays are commonly used to evaluate the:

• Lungs - Chest radiograph.
• Bones - Bone radiograph.
• Breasts - Mammograms.

How are the X-rays performed?

The technologist, an individual specially trained to perform radiology examinations, will position the patient with the anatomic area of interested against the imaging plate. Once the patient is correctly positioned the image is acquired.

What will I experience during the X-rays?

An X-ray (radiograph) is a non-invasive and painless test.

Who will interpret the X-rays?

A radiologist will analyze the images and send a signed report to your primary care or referring physician, who will discuss the results with you. New technology also allows for distribution of referral images over the Internet from our facility to selected physicians.

Is it safe to get X-rays (radiographs)?

Yes.

• X-rays have no side effects in the diagnostic range and special care is taken during the examinations to use the lowest radiation dose possible while producing the best diagnostic quality images for evaluation.
• Effective radiation dose from a chest radiograph is about 0.1 mSv, which is about the same dose as the average person receives from background radiation in 10 days.
• In addition, our radiographic equipment has been reviewed and inspected by physicists and engineers to qualify as an American College of Radiology accredited facility.