X RAY
What should I prepare for the exam?
There is no special preparation required for most X-rays. Once you arrive, you may be asked to change into a gown before your exam. You will also be asked to remove jewelry, glasses and any metal objects that could show up on the pictures and overlap key findings. Tell your doctor or X-ray technologist if there is any chance that you may be pregnant.
What will I feel during the exam?
X-ray exams are painless. Some discomfort may result from lying on the cold, hard table. Sometimes, to get a clear image of an injury such as a likely fracture, you may be asked to hold an uncomfortable position for a short time. Any movement could blur the picture and make it necessary to repeat the exam.
How is the exam performed?
The X-ray technologist will place you on the exam table, and will place a film holder (cassette) under the table in the area of your body to be imaged. Sandbags or pillows may help you hold the proper position. The technologist then walks into another room and will ask you to hold very still for a few seconds. The machine is turned on, sending a beam of X-rays through your body to expose the film. The technologist will then reposition you for another view, and repeat the process. When your X-rays are done, you will be asked to wait until the technologist checks the pictures for quality.
Who interprets the results and how do I get them?
A radiologist is a doctor skilled in X-ray and all other types of radiology exams. The radiologist will review your results, and will send a report to your primary care or referring doctor, who will give you your results. The radiologist does not discuss the results with you.