X RAY

What is it ?

X-rays are a form of radiant energy, Which can penetrate the body, capturing the resulting shadows & reflections on the photographic plate. The radiologist can view these on photographic film or on a TV or computer monitor. The films created by x-rays show different features of the body in various shades of gray.

Some X-rays exams improve visibility by using contrast, a range of substances which may be introduced into the patient by swallowing, injection, or enema.

In fluoroscopy X-rays are used to capture a moving image of an organ while it is functioning.

Why is it done?

Majority of all radiographs obtained in the institute are images of the chest. A chest Xray is usually done for the evaluation of lungs, heart & surrounding anatomy. Pneumonia, heart failure, pleurisy and lung cancer can be diagnosed or suspected on a chest X-ray, along with other less common conditions. X ray images of skull, spine, joints & extremities are performed to assist the physician in identifying & treating fractures, bone infections, diagnose & monitor the progression of degenerative diseases such as arthritis & cancer.

How is it done?

There is no special preparation required for the plain radiographs. Patient is asked to change into a gown before the examination & to remove jewellary, eyeglasses, any metal objects that could obscure the images for the chest x ray. Normally, the patient will stand with the chest pressed to the photographic plate with hands on hips & elbows pushed in front. The radiographer will ask the patient to be still & to take a deep breath & hold it. He will activate the radiographic equipment, which will send a beam of x-rays from behind the patient, through the patient’s chest, to the film behind the plate, thus exposing the film.

For the plain radiography of any other body part the radiographer positions the patient on the examination table, places the cassette under the table in the area of the body to be imaged. Sandbags or pillow may help the patient to be in the proper position. Then the radiographer activate the radiographic equipment & asks the patient to hold very still for a few seconds. The beam of X-rays is send through the body to expose the film. The radiographer then repositions the patient for another view ( if required) & the process is repeated.

The radiographer will remove the photographic plate & process the x-ray film in the automatic film processor. When the x-rays are completed patient is asked to wait until the radiographer & radiologists examine the images to determine if more x-rays are needed.

What do i do

You can directly report to the reception of the department after you are seen by the physician who fills the requisition form for the x-rays.

For the special radiographic procedure prior appointment & instructions are taken from the department of radiodiagnosis & imaging.

When it is done/advised?

Chest X ray is done to evaluate shortness of breath, a bad or persistent cough, a chest pain, chest injury, fever.

Because X ray imaging is so fast & easy, it is particularly useful in emergency diagnosis & treatment.

Preparation for the service

No preparation is required by the patient for the plain x-rays. Routine medicines may be taken.

Tariff

As per rate list of EHIRC