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AKA Radiography, X-radiation.
An X-ray exam uses a type of electromagnetic wave, or photon, to view the internal structure of the body. X-rays pass through different types of tissues at different rates, and the remaining photons are captured on the other side of the patient by a digital detector or photographic film.
X-ray exams are used to assess the presence or absence of disease, foreign objects, and structural damage (such as bone fractures) or anomaly. It can also be used to guide orthopedic surgery, such as spine repair/fusion, joint replacement and fracture reductions. Women who have difficulty becoming pregnant may even have recommended to get an X-ray exam to evaluate the shape and structure of the uterus, the openness of the fallopian tubes, and any scarring within the uterine or abdominal cavity.
In cases where contrast material is used, the material turns the areas of interest bright white on the X-ray images.
SMIL offers the following X-Ray scans:
Cystogram - A cystogram is an X-ray exam performed to examine the bladder to diagnose reflux, determine the shape of a patients bladder and its position, as well as to find damage from injuries, tumors and polyps.
Intravenous Pyelogram (IVP) - An intravenous pyelogram (IVP) is an x-ray examination performed by SMIL that scans the kidneys, ureters and urinary bladder with the use of iodinated contrast material injected into veins.
Voiding Cystourethrogram (VCUG) - A Voiding Cystourethrogram (VCUG) is an X-ray of the urinary system that shows how well the bladder and its connecting tubes (called the urethra and the ureters) are working. This X-ray can also determine whether the flow of urine is normal as the bladder empties.
X-ray, Lower GI Tract - A Lower gastrointestinal (GI) tract radiography, also called a lower GI or barium enema, is an X-ray examination of the large intestine to see internal organs in motion and help detect ulcers, tumors, inflammation, hiatal hernias, blockages and other abnormalities of the muscular wall of the lower GI tract.
X-ray, Upper GI Tract - An Upper gastrointestinal tract radiography, also called an upper GI, is an X-ray examination of the esophagus, stomach and first part of the small intestine (also known as the duodenum) to help detect ulcers, tumors, inflammation, hiatal hernias, blockages, and other abnormalities of the muscular wall of GI tract
Bone Radiography (X-Ray) - Bone X-rays are static images used to diagnose or treat patients by recording images of the internal structure of the body to assess the presence or absence of disease, foreign objects, and structural damage or anomaly. X-rays can be used to diagnose fractured bones or joint dislocation, infection, or arthritis; to guide orthopedic surgery, locate foreign objects in soft tissues around or in bones, or assist in the detection and diagnosis of bone cancer.
Dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry - DEXA is used to measure the strength, density and mineral content of bone, most often to diagnose osteoporosis or assess an individuals risk for developing fractures. DEXA is also effective in tracking the effects of treatment for osteoporosis and other conditions that cause bone loss.
Chest Radiography - A chest X-ray is a static image used to evaluate the lungs, heart, and chest wall to help diagnose certain symptoms, including shortness of breath, persistent cough, chest pain, and fever.
Hysterosalpingography - A Hysterosalpingography is an X-ray examination used to evaluate the shape and structure of the uterus and fallopian tubes and to determine the presence and severity of tumors, adhesions, and uterine fibroids; as well as to monitor the effects of tubal surgery.
The SMIL Technologist will position you in the X-ray room, either on a table or standing up depending on the area of the body they are imaging. Typically, two or more views of the area are taken.
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 SMIL Technologist will walk behind a wall or into the next room to activate the X-ray machine.
If a contrast material is needed for an X-ray, it will be administered intravenously.
When the examination is complete, you will be asked to wait until the Radiologist determines that all the necessary images have been obtained. An X-ray exam is usually completed within 15 minutes.
For most X-rays, there are minimal to no preparations. However, there are certain exams you will need to prepare for. Learn how to prepare for your specific exam below.
There is always a slight chance of cancer from excessive exposure to radiation. However, the benefit of an accurate diagnosis far outweighs the risk. No radiation remains in a patient's body after an x-ray examination.
Women should always inform their physician or X-ray SMIL Technologist if there is any possibility that they are pregnant.
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