X-Ray Services

What is an X-ray?

An x-ray is a type of imaging test that has been utilized for years. With this technology, doctors can see your bones, muscle and more without having to make an incision. This helps them diagnose, treat and monitor a number of different medical conditions. Because the test uses a form of electromagnetic radiation, there are some risks involved in the procedure. However, the benefits far outweigh these potential risks.

An x-ray is typically used:

• To examine an area where you’re experiencing discomfort or pain

• To monitor how a disease is progressing, like osteoporosis

• To check up on how a prescribed treatment is working

What to expect.

Most x-rays won’t require any special preparation on your part. However, you will have to remove jewelry or other metallic objects and may need to wear medical scrubs (top and pants) or a hospital gown. In some cases, contrast dye is injected beforehand. If you’re pregnant, tell us ahead of time, as fetuses are more susceptible to the x-ray’s potential risks.

When you go in for your x-ray, the technologist will tell you how to position your body. Depending on what area of the body that needs to be studied, they may ask you to sit, lie down or stand in several positions during the test. In many cases, you will sit or lie as a large camera attached to a steel arm moves over your body to capture x-ray images. The technologist will ask you to stay as still as possible, as motion can blur the images.