LAB TEST
X-ray
X-rays are a type of electromagnetic radiation, just like visible light. An x-ray machine sends individual x-ray waves through the body. The images are recorded on a computer or film. Structures that are dense (such as bone) will block most of the x-ray, and will appear white. Metal and contrast media (special dye used to highlight areas of the body) will also appear white. Structures containing air will be black, and muscle, fat, and fluid will appear as shades of gray.
How the Test is Performed
The test is done in a hospital radiology department or in your health care provider's office. How you are positioned depends on the type of x-ray being done. Several different x-ray views may be needed. You need to stay still when you are having an x-ray. Motion can cause blurry images. You may be asked to hold your…
How to Prepare for the Test
Before the x-ray, tell your health care team if you are pregnant or may be pregnant. You will need to remove all jewelry. Metal can cause unclear images. You may need to wear a hospital gown.
How the Test will Feel
X-rays are painless. Some body positions needed during an x-ray may be uncomfortable for a short time.
Risks
X-rays are monitored and regulated so you get the minimum amount of radiation exposure needed to produce the image. For most x-rays, your risk for cancer, or if you are pregnant, the risk for birth defects in your unborn baby is very low. Most experts feel that the benefits of appropriate x-ray imaging greatly…
References
Mettler FA. Introduction: an approach to image interpretation. In: Mettler FA, ed. Essentials of Radiology . 4th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2019:chap 1. Rodney WM, Rodney JRM, Arnold KMR. Principles of x-ray interpretation. In: Fowler GC, ed. Pfenninger and Fowler's Procedures for Primary Care . 4th ed.…
This is a summary. Read the full article at www.ucsfbenioffchildrens.org (reviewed 15/07/2024).
This page is general information and is not medical advice. It does not replace a registered doctor, and it is not a prescription or a recommendation to use any medicine or test. Prices are listed prices and may change. Always follow the advice of your doctor or pharmacist.