Atlas Diagnostic Imaging

X-ray

X-Ray

X-Ray

An X-ray technologist or radiologist can perform an X-ray in a hospital’s radiology department, a dentist’s office, or a clinic that specializes in diagnostic procedures.

Once you’re fully prepared, your X-ray technician or radiologist will tell you how to position your body to create clear images. They may ask you to lie, sit, or stand in several positions during the test. They may take images while you stand in front of a specialized plate that contains X-ray film or sensors. In some cases, they may also ask you to lie or sit on a specialized plate and move a large camera connected to a steel arm over your body to capture X-ray images.

Atlas Diagnostic Imaging is the one of the best x-ray imaging center in Fairview Heights and St. Louis.

How to prepare for X-ray imaging and how it is performed?

X-ray scanning can be done as part of inpatient care or on an outpatient basis.

Although each facility may have its own set of protocols, generally speaking, an X-ray scanning technique goes like this:

  • The patient will be asked to take off any clothing or jewellery that would prevent the body part being inspected from being exposed. If clothes is need to be removed, the patient will be given a gown to wear. Before your X-ray scanning is taken, they could also ask you to take off any jewellery or other metallic objects from your body.
  • Once you’re fully prepared, your X-ray technician or radiologist will tell you how to position your body to create clear x-ray images.
  • They may ask you to lie, sit, or stand in several positions during the test.
  • They may take x-ray images while you stand in front of a specialized plate that contains X-ray film or sensors.
  • In some cases, they may also ask you to lie or sit on a specialized plate and move a large camera connected to a steel arm over your body to capture X-ray images.
  • Body portions that are not being scanned might be hidden.
  • If you have metal implants from earlier surgery, always let your doctor or radiologist know. These implants can produce a crisp image by preventing X-rays from penetrating your body.
  • Before your X-ray imaging, you might occasionally need to ingest a contrast agent, also known as “contrast dye”. This material will aid in enhancing the pictures’ quality. It may contain iodine or barium compounds.

Your physician may instruct you to fast for a predetermined period of time before having an X-ray scan if you want to evaluate your gastrointestinal tract.You must refrain from eating anything during your fast.
Additionally, you might need to limit or avoid consuming certain liquids. They may occasionally additionally instruct you to take bowel-clearing drugs.

Why is an X-ray imaging performed?

Your physician might ask for an X-ray scanning to:

Examine the area that is causing you pain or discomfort. Track the development of a disease that has been identified, such as osteoporosis. Determine how effectively the recommended treatment is working.

Conditions that may call for an X-ray include:

  • Fractures.
  • Infections.
  • Bone cancer.
  • Osteoporosis.
  • Breast tumors.
  • Enlarged heart.
  • Digestive problems.
  • Blocked blood vessels.
  • Health issues with your lungs.
  • A necessity to remove ingested objects.

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What are the side effects of an X-Ray scanning?
Images of your body are produced by X-ray scan using very small amounts of radiation. For the majority of people, the level of radiation exposure is regarded as safe, but not for a developing infant. Before getting an X-ray image, let your doctor know if you’re pregnant or think you could be. They might recommend an alternative imaging technique, like an MRI.
You can feel pain or discomfort during the exam if you’re getting an X-ray scan taken to assist identify or treat a painful ailment, such as a fractured bone. During the photoshoot, you’ll need to hold your body in a specific way. You may have pain or discomfort as a result. Your doctor could advise getting some pain medication first.
If you eat a contrast material before your X-ray scanning, it may cause side effects. These include:

  • Hives Itching.
  • Nausea.
  • Lightheadedness.
  • Having a metallic aftertaste.

A severe reaction, such as anaphylactic shock, extremely low blood pressure, or cardiac arrest, can occasionally be brought on by the dye. You should call your doctor right away if you think you are experiencing a serious response.