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X-Ray
 TotalMED
Radiology.
X-ray, or radiography, refers to procedures that use
standard x-rays to view parts of the body. TotalMED
Radiology offers common x-ray, tomography, and fluoroscopy.
In all three procedures, a very low dose of radiation
is used, which make x-rays extremely safe diagnostic
tests.
Exam preparation
- Preparation for your x-ray
exam will depend on the type of exam; a CDI representative
will call you prior to your appointment to provide
specific instructions, and review health and insurance
information.
- Notify a member of TotalMED’s
staff if you are nursing or if there is a chance
you could be pregnant.
- Please bring previous imaging
study results (x-ray, MRI, CT, etc.) such as reports,
films or CD-roms if available.
- Please arrive 15 minutes early
to verify your registration.
During the exam – what
to expect
- Conventional radiography
(x-ray) is a simple, painless procedure
that enables the radiologist to analyze the bony
and soft tissue anatomy for diagnosis. The average
x-ray study takes 15-20 minutes.
- Tomography
is a series of x-rays that focus on a specific level
within the body. Tomographic examinations show precise
and detailed images of selected tissues, organs,
or bony structures. The exam typically takes approximately
40 minutes, and no injections or contrast materials
are usually required.
- Fluoroscopy uses
a fluoroscope, which is an instrument consisting
of an x-ray machine and a fluorescent screen to
view the internal organs of the body. It is especially
helpful during diagnostic injections and pain management
procedures, as well as diagnosing problems of the
digestive tract, kidneys, and gallbladder. A fluoroscopy
exam usually lasts 30-40 minutes. A contrast agent
is sometimes needed to amplify the area of interest.
After the exam – what to expect
- A radiologist who specializes
in a specific area of the body will review your
images (i.e., a musculoskeletal radiologist will
review x-rays of your leg).
- The radiologist prepares a
diagnostic report to share with your doctor.
Your doctor will consider this information
in context of your overall care, and talk with you
about the results. |
