X-Ray

Radiography 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.

An X-Ray makes images of tissues in the body, including the hand, wrist, arm, foot, ankle, knee, leg or spine.

A X-ray is used to:

• Determine whether a bone has been fractured or if a joint is dislocated
• Ensure that a fracture has been properly aligned and stabilized for healing following treatment
• Determine whether there is a build-up of fluid in the joint or around a bone
• Guide orthopaedic surgery, such as spinal repair, joint replacement and fracture reductions
• Evaluate injury or damage from conditions such as infection, arthritis, abnormal bone growths or other bone
• Diseases, such as osteoporosis
• Assist in the detection and diagnosis of cancer
• Locate foreign objects
• Evaluate changes in bones

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 jewellery, 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.

A bone x-ray examination itself is a painless procedure.

You may experience discomfort from the cool temperature in the examination room. You may also find holding still in a particular position and lying on the hard examination table uncomfortable, especially if you are injured. The technologist will assist you in finding the most comfortable position possible that still ensures x-ray image quality.