X-rays are the most common diagnostic procedure in radiology. It is the oldest and most frequently used form of medical imaging and is commonly used to evaluate fractures, or for chest conditions such as pneumonia or for abdominal pain.
How x-rays work
X-rays use short wave length radiation that penetrates the body and is captured on a photographic plate to see the outlines of bones, soft tissue and internal organs on film. Body tissues vary in their absorption of the x-rays and therefore show up on film in varying shades of gray. Usually, the denser the tissue, the lighter it will appear on film.
How should I prepare for this procedure?
There is no special preparation required for most x-rays. Once you arrive, you may be asked to change into a patient gown before the examination. You will also be asked to remove jewelry, eyeglasses, and any metal objects that could obscure the images. Women should always inform their x-ray technologist or radiologist if they are or could be pregnant.
What does the equipment look like?
Radiography equipment looks like a large flat table with a drawer that holds an x-ray film cassette into which a film plate is placed. Suspended above the table is something that holds the x-ray tube which will be moved over the body to take the x-ray.
How is the procedure performed?
The technologist positions the patient on the table, places a cassette under the table in the area of the body to be scanned and places sandbags or pillows to help the patient hold the proper position. If the patient is having a chest x-ray, then they will be asked to stand against a flat plate, either with their arms up or on their hips. Then the technologist goes to an adjacent room and asks the patient to hold very still without breathing for a few seconds. When the equipment is activated, a small beam of x-rays is sent through the body to expose the film. The technologist may then reposition the patient and take another film. The entire process normally takes no longer than 15 minutes. X-ray imaging is painless and the only discomfort may come from holding a position for a short time. When the x-rays are completed, you will be asked to wait until the technologist and radiologist examine the films to determine if more are needed.
Who interprets the results?
The radiologist, a physician, will analyze the images and send a signed report to your doctor, who will inform you of the results.
