What is General Radiography (X-ray)?
A general radiography (X-ray) can be done on the chest, abdomen, pelvis, skull and extremity. It involves exposing part of the body to a small dose of radiation to produce an image of the internal organs. When x-rays penetrate the body, they are absorbed in varying amounts by different parts of the anatomy. Ribs and bones, for example, will absorb much of the radiation and, therefore, appear white or light gray on the image. Lung tissue and other internal organs absorb lesser radiation and appear darker on the image. In this manner a “picture” of the body part is formed.
x-ray
What are some common uses of General Radiography?
Chest and bone x-rays are very common examinations.
A chest x-ray is usually done for the evaluation of rib fracture.
Bone x-ray is the fastest and easiest way for a physician to view and assess broken bones, cracked skull and injured backbone. At least two films are taken of a bone, and often three films if the problem is around a joint (Knee, elbow or wrist).
What should I prepare for the procedure?
The procedure requires no special preparation.
How is the procedure performed?
You may be requested to change into an x-ray gown to avoid metallic items, buttons and zippers. You will also be asked to remove jewellery, spectacles, and any metal objects that could obscure the image.
Once you are positioned in the required pose with the x-ray plate, you may be asked to keep still. The radiographer will go to another small room or cubicle and activate the x-ray equipment which will send a beam of x-rays to the positioned area. You need to keep still as any movement will lead to an unsharp picture and an accurate diagnosis cannot be made.
When the x-rays are completed you will be asked to wait until the radiographer and radiologist examine the images to determine if more are needed.
What will I experience during the procedure?
This is a painless procedure. The only discomfort results from the coldness of the x-ray plate. Sometimes to get a clear image of an injury, you may be asked to hold onto an uncomfortable position for a short time. Any movement could blur the image and make it necessary to repeat the procedure to get a useful, clear picture.
When can I expect results?
The radiologist (specialist doctor) will review the image and the report will be sent to you doctor who will then discuss the scan results with you. If requested by your doctor, the films may be handed directly to you to return to your doctor.
What are the Benefits and Risks?
BENEFITS
- X-ray imaging is useful to diagnose bone and joint injury and disease, such as fractures, infections, arthritis and cancer.
- Because x-ray imaging is fast and easy, it is particularly useful in emergency diagnosis and treatment.
- X-ray equipment is relatively inexpensive and widely available in physician offices, ambulatory care centers, nursing homes and other locations, making it convenient for both patients and physicians.
RISKS
- Exposure to x-radiation. During a single x-ray exposure, a patient is exposed to about 0.06-2mSv of radiation dose. To put this into perspective, we all exposed to approximately 3mSv of radiation dose each year from sources like the ultraviolet rays of the sun and small traces of radioactive isotopes, such as uranium found in soil.
- Women should always inform their doctor or x-ray technologist if there is any possibility that they are pregnant.
Make Appointment or Enquiry:
Call: (65) 3138 1235/ Whatsapp or SMS: (65) 9235 7641 / Email: milda@bone.com.sg
