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McKesson Clinical Reference Systems: Women's Health Advisor 2002.2
Spanish version
X-Rays and Radiographs
What are x-rays and radiographs?
X-rays are a form of electromagnetic energy, or radiation.
Visible light and microwaves are other forms of
electromagnetic energy. These different forms of energy
have different wavelengths.
X-rays are able to penetrate body tissues. They are used to
create pictures, or images, of body structures on film.
Sometimes the images on film produced by x-rays are also
called x-rays. More correct names for the pictures on film
are radiographs or x-ray images. However, the term x-ray is
commonly used to refer to these images.
A radiograph is a painless procedure. Modern equipment
produces high-quality images using the lowest possible amount
of radiation. Many physicians' offices have their own x-ray
equipment.
When are they used?
X-rays are used in the diagnosis of many diseases and
disorders. They can show changes in the part of the body
being examined.
How do I prepare for a radiograph?
There are no special preparations for most x-ray exams. If
you are having a special x-ray exam that requires
preparation, your health care provider will give you special
instructions.
What happens during the procedure?
Usually you undress to expose the area being examined. You
may be placed on a table (sitting or lying down). You will
get in a position that gives a clear view of the part of the
body being examined.
The x-ray technologist will put the x-ray machine in the
proper position. The technologist will leave the room or go
behind a protective screen or wall to take the radiograph.
This keeps his or her daily exposure to x-rays at a minimum.
It takes only a second for a simple radiograph to be taken
(similar to taking a photo). You must remain perfectly still
while the x-ray picture is being taken. Several radiographs
may be taken for different views.
After the radiographs are taken, the film must be developed.
The development takes just a few minutes. The x-ray
technologist will then check the images to make sure no other
pictures need to be taken before you leave.
After the technologist has checked the radiographs, a
radiologist or your health care provider will look at them
and interpret them. Radiologists are doctors who have
extensive training in the interpretation of radiographs and
other types of images.
Special types of x-ray exams include:
- CT scan: A scan that uses x-rays and a computer to
produce cross-sectional views of specific parts of the
body. Sometimes dyes (called contrast media) are injected
into your body to help your provider see specific
structures.
- Venography: A procedure in which a special liquid is
injected into the veins. The path of the liquid as it
travels through the body can be followed with a series of
radiographs. An example of this is an IVP (intravenous
pyelogram), which looks at the kidneys and bladder.
- Barium enema: A procedure in which a special liquid is
passed into the large intestine through the rectum. The
liquid appears as an opaque or white substance on the
radiograph.
- Upper GI: A procedure similar to a barium enema except
you swallow a special liquid and then radiographs are
taken.
What are the benefits of this procedure?
Radiographs help your health care provider see the inside of
your body and thus make a better diagnosis of your problem.
What are the risks associated with a radiograph?
If you have radiographs frequently, it is considered
unhealthy because of the increased exposure to radiation.
However, you can have many, many radiographs during your
lifetime without significant danger to your health.
You may have an allergic reaction to the contrast dye used in
CT scans or venography.
If you are pregnant, you should not be exposed to x-rays
unless you discuss the matter with your health care provider
first.
When should I call my health care provider?
Call your health care provider immediately if:
- You have any change or worsening of pain or symptoms.
Call your health care provider during office hours if:
- You have questions about the procedure or its result.
- You want to make another appointment.
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