 An
x-ray (radiograph) is a noninvasive medical test that helps
physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions. Imaging
with x-rays involves exposing a part of the body to a small
dose of ionizing radiation to produce pictures of the inside
of the body. X-rays are the oldest and most frequently used
form of medical imaging. X-Ray imaging is used for
diagnosing various medical problems in bones, chest, upper
and lower gastrointestinal tract, contrast studies and a
myriad of fluoroscopic studies. For example, a radiograph
can determine broken bones, joint dislocation, fracture,
infection, arthritis, bone cancer and locate foreign objects
in soft tissue. Another common test is a chest x-ray which
is typically the first imaging test used to help diagnose
symptoms such as:
- shortness of breath
- a bad or persistent cough
- chest pain or injury
- Fever
Physicians use the examination to help diagnose or monitor
treatment for conditions such as: pneumonia, heart frailer,
emphysema, lung cancer or other medical conditions.
Routine Radiography, Tomography, Barium Studies (upper and
lower GI tract), Contrast studies (IVP, Hysterosalpingogram,
Arthrograms, Cholangiogram).
Fluoroscopy studies are mainly performed in our state of
the art new digital fluoroscopy unit enabling our Radiologists
to interpret accurate diagnosing and early treatment plan.
Most X-rays do not require preparation prior to the exam. Special
studies such as fluoroscopy exams (Upper GI, Lower GI) require
specific preparation which will be explained to you by our
schedulers during the scheduling process.
You may be asked to remove some or all of your clothes and
to wear a gown during the exam. You may also be asked to
remove jewelry, eye glasses and any metal objects or clothing
that might interfere with the x-ray images.
Women should always inform their physician or x-ray technologist
if there is any possibility that they are pregnant. Many
imaging tests are not performed during pregnancy so as not
to expose the fetus to radiation. If an x-ray is necessary,
precautions will be taken to minimize radiation exposure
to the baby.
Depending on the type of exam a routine x-Ray takes about
five to fifteen minutes. The contrast and fluoroscopy
cases may take anywhere from fifteen minutes to forty five
minutes.
Oral contrast is used during a fluoroscopy exam of the Upper
GI tract. It aids the Radiologist in better visualization
of the body the part. The patient is instructed to drink
the fluid (contrast) while the Radiologist and/or the technologist
take pictures during the exam. Once the exam is complete
the patient is instructed to drink plenty of water to help
remove the contrast from the body.
Your X-Ray images will be analyzed by a radiologist, a physician
who specializes in diagnostic testing. The radiologist will
send a signed report which includes an interpretation of
the image to your primary physician. Your physician will
receive your results soon after. At KMC we also offer our
patients a free copy of their exam on CD to share with their
physicians.
Our board certified Radiologists are specially trained to
diagnose and interpret the images. At KMC the Radiography
technologists are specially trained in the theory and practice
of Diagnostic Radiography procedures and operate the equipment
used during the procedure. The technologists are board
certified and licensed (ARRT), and KMC Radiology Department
is fully accredited by the American College of Radiology.
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