X-Rays

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Introduction

X-rays use radiation energy to create images of internal body structures.  X-rays are a non-invasive procedure, meaning that the body does not have to be surgically opened to see a bone or tissue.  X-rays are used to help diagnose a condition, such as a broken bone or some types of tumors.  X-rays are used to screen for some types of diseases, such as lung cancer.  Doctors also use the information from X-rays to help formulate treatment plans.

Procedure
X-rays can be performed in your doctor’s office, an outpatient radiology center, or a hospital radiology department.  An X-ray is a quick, painless procedure.  You will be asked to remove metal objects, such as jewelry or watches, from the area being X-rayed.  An X-ray technician will position your body in accordance with the X-ray camera.  The parts of your body that are not being X-rayed may be shielded with a lead apron or blanket.  In some cases, a contrast dye may be injected to add contrast to the X-ray image.  You will be asked to remain motionless while the X-ray is taken. 

Results
Your doctor and/or a radiologist will review your X-ray results.  When your doctor receives the results, he or she will review them with you and discuss your treatment plan.

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This information is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It should not be used in place of an individual consultation or examination or replace the advice of your health care professional and should not be relied upon to determine diagnosis or course of treatment.

The iHealthSpot patient education library was written collaboratively by the iHealthSpot editorial team which includes Senior Medical Authors Dr. Mary Car-Blanchard, OTD/OTR/L and Valerie K. Clark, and the following editorial advisors: Steve Meadows, MD, Ernie F. Soto, DDS, Ronald J. Glatzer, MD, Jonathan Rosenberg, MD, Christopher M. Nolte, MD, David Applebaum, MD, Jonathan M. Tarrash, MD, and Paula Soto, RN/BSN. This content complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information. The library commenced development on September 1, 2005 with the latest update/addition on February 16, 2022. For information on iHealthSpot’s other services including medical website design, visit www.iHealthSpot.com.