X-RAY
Far Oaks Orthopedists imaging staff are all registered and licensed Radiologic Technologists. The imaging staff combined has over 50 years of experience. Our radiology supervisor has been with Far Oaks Orthopedists for over 30 years and another technologist has 14 years experience in orthopedic x-ray. Our radiologic technologists and MRI technologist are qualified to produce quality images and scans with compassion and the gentleness required for orthopedic problems.
WHAT IS AN X-RAY (RADIOGRAPHY)?
An x-ray is a painless medical test that enables orthopedists to diagnose and treat medical conditions. Radiography involves exposing a part of the body to a small amount of ionizing radiation to create images of the skeleton. X-rays are the most frequently used medical technology in the history of medicine.
An x-ray is used to determine whether a bone of the skeleton has been fractured, a joint is dislocated, whether there is a build up of fluid in the joint, to locate foreign objects, to guide orthopedic surgery such as spinal repair, joint replacement and fracture reductions, or to evaluate changes and healing in bones.
HOW SHOULD I PREPARE FOR THE PROCEDURE?
You will be asked to remove some or all of your clothes during the exam so dress comfortably. It is recommended you not wear jewelry or any metal objects to your x-ray appointment. You may also be asked to remove your glasses or contact lenses. Women should always inform their orthopedist or x-ray technician if there is any possibility that they are pregnant.
WHAT WILL I EXPERIENCE DURING AND AFTER THE X-RAY PROCEDURE?
You may experience slight discomfort from the cool temperature in the examination room. You may also find it difficult to hold still in a particular position and lying on the hard examination table uncomfortable, especially if you are injured. The x-ray technician will aid you in achieving the most comfortable position possible that still ensures x-ray image quality.
WHO INTERPRETS THE RESULTS AND HOW DO I GET THEM?
Your orthopedist and a radiologist, physicians specifically trained to interpret x-ray images, will analyze them then review them with you and send a signed report to your primary care or referring physician. Skeletal x-rays are the quickest and easiest way for an orthopedist to view and assess broken bones and joint and spine injuries.
WHAT ARE THE RADIATION EXPOSURE RISKS?
Special care is taken during an x-ray examination to use the lowest radiation dose possible while producing the best images for evaluation. X-ray systems have tightly controlled x-ray beams to minimize stray or scatter radiation. This ensures those parts of a patient’s body not being imaged receive minimal radiation exposure.