Digital X-Ray

Prior to your exam you may be asked to change into a gown or shorts depending on the area of interest. This is done to eliminate metal such as zippers, snaps, and buttons from the picture. Jewelry must be removed only if it is in the area of interest. For example, rings must be removed for a finger x-ray.

You can save time by coming to your appointment prepared. This involves wearing elastic waist pants or clothing which does not have metal of any kind. You may also remove jewelry ahead of time. Cell phones, pagers, and other electronics are not harmed by x-ray and are completely safe in the room. Female patients must inform the technologist if there is a chance of pregnancy before the exam begins. If there is a chance of pregnancy, x-rays will be postponed to a later date when the patient is confident she is not pregnant.

Lead aprons are always used to protect the gonads of children and individuals of child bearing age. This protection is utilized in all exams except lumbar and pelvic regions where the lead would obscure the area of interest.

There are numerous projections and positions used to obtain x-rays of all different body parts. Some x-rays, particularly knees in older patients, will be taken weight bearing. This shows the physician what your knees look like when you are standing.

If you are scheduling an appointment to obtain a second opinion, all of your previous x-rays, MRI films, and other scans pertaining to the area of interest should be brought to your appointment. You should arrange for the transfer of these films by calling the appropriate facility where the films were ordered (i.e.: primary care doctor other orthopedist, etc). Allow up to two weeks for the x-rays to be transferred to our facility. The previous exams will aide your physician and possibly prevent the need for additional x-rays.

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