X-RAY FAQ

1. What is an x-ray?
X-ray is the oldest and most frequently used form of medical imaging. Discovered more than a century ago, x-rays can produce diagnostic images of the human body on film or digitally on a computer screen. X-ray involves exposing a part of the body to a small dose of radiation to produce an image of the internal organs. When x-rays penetrate the body, they are absorbed in varying amounts by different tissues. Ribs, for example, are dense and will block much of the radiation and, therefore, appear white or light gray on the image. Soft tissue such as the liver or lungs will appear darker because more radiation can pass through it to expose the film.

2. How should I prepare for the procedure?
There is no special preparation required for most x-rays. Once you arrive, you may be asked to change into a gown before your examination. You will also be asked to remove jewelry, eyeglasses and any metal objects that could show up on the images and overlap important findings. Women should always inform their doctor or x-ray technologist if there is any possibility that they are pregnant.

3. How is the procedure performed?
The technologist positions the patient on the examination table, places a film holder (cassette) under the table in the area of the body to be imaged. Then the technologist steps behind a radiation barrier and asks the patient to hold very still without breathing for a few seconds. The x-ray equipment is activated, sending a beam of x-rays through the body to expose the film. The technologist then repositions the patient for another view, and the process is repeated.

When your x-rays are completed you will be asked to wait until the technologist checks the images for adequate exposure and motion.