Longhorn Imaging Center X-Ray Imaging

An X-ray is a test that produces digital images of the structures inside of your body, especially bones and joints.

An X-ray is a machine that produces a precise beam of radiation directed at specific parts of the human body. Those beams capture images to create two-dimensional images. Dense parts within the body, such as bones, block the beam and appear white on the image. Less dense parts of the body, such as muscles, appear darker on the X-ray because they do not block as much of the beam. Soft tissue and fat appear as shades of gray.

A process called digitizing obtains images and displays those images on a computer screen for interpretation.

Preparation for an X-Ray

• Without contrast – No special preparation is required, however,
  • You may need to wear a hospital gown, that we provide
  • Remove all jewelry and metal objects before your X-ray
• With contrast – Some types of X-rays require you to have a contrast solution to help outline a precise part of your body and give greater detail in an X-ray image.
  • Depending on which type of X-ray you are having will depend on how you receive the contrast. You will either drink a solution of barium or iodine, swallow a pill, or receive an IV or injection

What are the Benefits of an X-Ray?

X-ray exams are a valuable tool and are used to:

• Diagnose bone and joint conditions (infection, arthritis, cancer, fractures or dislocations)
• Diagnose chest conditions (pneumonia, emphysema, lung cancer, tuberculosis, or heart failure)
• Detect foreign objects
• Detect problems in your digestive system
• A surgical tool to guide medical professionals inserting stents, catheters or other devices

What are the Risks of an X-Ray?

Some people are concerned that the radiation used during the X-ray process may lead to cancer.

The part of your body X-rayed determines the amount of radiation used for the exam. For example:

• The approximate amount of exposure to natural background radiation in our everyday lives compared to the amount of radiation exposure during one adult X-ray from:
  • Chest X-ray = 10 days
  • Extremity X-ray (hand or foot) = 3 hours
  • Spine X-Ray = 6 months

If you may be or are pregnant, please tell your doctor before the X-ray. Although the risk to an unborn child is small, your doctor may determine that another type of testing, like ultrasound, is safer for your situation.

Decreasing Effects of X-ray Risks?

In general, the benefits of an X-ray outweigh the risks, and they have a relatively low risk.

The FDA recommends these steps:

• Ask your health care professional if other procedures would allow an equivalent, quality assessment for your situation with lower radiation risk.
• Don’t refuse an X-ray. Ask your healthcare provider to explain the medical necessity of the test. They will tell you if the risk of X-ray radiation is greater than the risk of small radiation exposure.
• Don’t insist on an X-ray if your health care provider explains that there is no need for one.
• Place a protective shield (lead apron) between yourself and the source

What to expect during and after your X-ray?

A technician positions your body to obtain the desired views ordered by your healthcare provider. You may sit, stand, or lie down in different positions during the X-ray in front of a specialized plate containing film or sensor. The technician takes two or three images.

During the test, you must remain still and hold your breath to prevent blurry images.

An X-ray will take a few minutes to over an hour, depending on the type of X-ray ordered.

After your X-ray, you may resume normal activities. If you had an X-ray with contrast, drink plenty of water after the test to rid your body of the contrast solution.

Results

X-rays are digitally saved on a computer and viewed within minutes. The radiologist examines the images and interprets the results. The radiologist sends the report to your doctor, who will discuss the results with you at a follow-up appointment.

Contact us

Longhorn Imaging Center is committed to safety and will limit radiation exposure to a minimum while adhering to industry safety standards. We provide every patient with superior, compassionate care to put your mind at ease and deliver the exceptional imaging services that you and your physician need.

Call us at 512-444-8900 or reach out to us online to schedule your appointment with us today.