Radiography & X-Rays
X-rays are the oldest and most frequently used form of medical imaging. They are a form of electromagnetic radiation like light or radio waves. Imaging with x-rays involves exposing a part of the body to a small dose of ionizing radiation to produce pictures of the inside of the body.
Areas of Application
- Lungs – Chest Radiograph
- Bones – Bone/Spine Radiograph
How are X-Rays Performed?
Our specially trained technicians will perform the radiology examinations. They will position the patient with the anatomic area of interested against the imaging plate. Once the patient is correctly positioned, the image is acquired.
Are X-Rays Safe?
Yes. X-rays have no side effects in the diagnostic range and special care is taken during the examinations to use the lowest radiation dose possible while producing the best diagnostic quality images for evaluation. The effective radiation dose from a chest radiograph is about 0.1 mSv, which is about the same dose as the average person receives from background radiation in 10 days. In addition, our radiographic equipment has been reviewed and inspected by physicists and engineers to qualify as an American College of Radiology accredited facility. Overall, an X-ray (radiograph) is a non-invasive and painless test.
How to Prepare for Your Examination
An X-ray requires no special preparation, though you may be asked to remove some or all of your clothes and to wear a gown during the exam. You may also be asked to remove jewelry, eyeglasses and any metal objects or clothing that might interfere with the X-ray images.
Women should always inform their physician or X-ray technologist if there is any possibility that they are pregnant so as not to expose the fetus to radiation. If an X-ray is necessary, precautions will be taken to minimize radiation exposure to the baby.
Who Will Interpret the X-Rays?
A radiologist will analyze the images and send a signed report to your primary care or referring physician, who will discuss the results with you. Mink Radiology also allows for the distribution of referral images over the Internet from our facility to selected physicians.
Next, learn about breast imaging.