General Radiology (Digital X-ray)
NCH Healthcare Group provides exceptional quality and experience in diagnostic imaging. Our plain film x-ray services are offered at four of our imaging locations. To schedule one these exams or procedures at one of our multiple locations, contact scheduling at 239-643-8991.
What is an X-ray?
Radiography, or x-ray, as it is commonly known, is the oldest and most frequently used form of medical imaging. Discovered more than a century ago, x-rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation that can produce diagnostic images of the human body on film or digitally on a computer screen. Imaging with x-rays involves exposing a part of the body to a small dose of ionizing radiation that passes through the body, recording an image on photographic film or a digital image recording plate.
X-ray imaging is the fastest and easiest noninvasive medical test that helps a physician to view and assess broken bones, such as skull fractures and spine injuries, and diagnose and treat medical conditions.
How is the procedure performed?
A technologist who is specifically trained to perform radiology procedures will explain the procedure to you. You will be asked to stand against an imaging plate or lie down on the x-ray table. The technologist will position the part of your body in question and move behind a shield to make the exposure. At least two images (from different angles) are taken and often three images are needed if the problem is around a joint (knee, elbow or wrist). The technologist will develop the images checking for quality and to ensure all the necessary images have been obtained. A radiologist, a physician specifically trained to supervise and interpret radiology examinations, will analyze the images and send a signed report to your primary care or referring physician, who will discuss the results with you.
How should I prepare?
Most x-rays require no special preparation. 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.
What are the benefits vs. risks?
Benefits
- X-rays usually have no side effects in the diagnostic range.
- X-ray equipment is relatively inexpensive and widely available making it convenient for both patients and physicians.
- X-ray imaging is fast and easy, it is particularly useful in emergency diagnosis and treatment.
- No radiation remains in a patient's body after an x-ray examination.
Risks
- There is always a slight chance of developing cancer from excessive exposure to radiation; however, the benefit of an accurate diagnosis far outweighs the risk. It is important to know that the general population receives far more radiation exposure from natural radiation than from diagnostic x-ray procedures.
- Women should always inform their physician and 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.
Minimizing Radiation Exposure
Special care is taken during x-ray examinations to use the lowest radiation dose possible while producing the best images for evaluation. National and State protection councils continually review and update the technique standards used by radiology professionals.
State-of-the-art x-ray systems have tightly controlled x-ray beams with significant filtration and dose control methods to minimize stray or scatter radiation. This ensures that those parts of a patient's body not being imaged receive minimal radiation exposure. Additional shielding (lead aprons, gloves and panels) are used according to state regulations. Children may need to be restrained in order to limit multiple exposures due to motion.
All Digital Imaging
We have all digital imaging which is similar to taking a photo with a digital camera. Specially designed digital detectors produce an image that can be immediately displayed on a high-resolution computer monitor. The image is then transmitted and stored like a computer file.
Advantages of digital imaging include:
- No waiting time for film to develop; images appear on a monitor within seconds.
- Improves efficiency so more patients can be seen in a given time period.
- Radiologists have the ability to manipulate images for a clearer, more detailed study.
- Improved quality of images.
- Reduces the need for retakes due to over or under exposure. Reduced retakes saves time and reduces exposure to radiation.
- Images can be transmitted quickly and easily stored and copied without any loss of information.
- No more dependence on only one set of “original” films. Digital images can be archived and retrieved indefinitely.
- Increased quality of patient care.
- Physicians and can view and discuss images with radiologists from any location with access.
- Patients no longer need to return to pick up film.