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X-ray in Indiana
What is an X-ray?
An X-ray examination uses electromagnetic radiation to make images of your bones and internal organs, including your abdomen and chest. X-rays allow your physician to have pictures taken of the inside of your body, to help form or dispute a diagnosis. It is an effective tool for determining a fracture, diagnosing arthritis, screening for heart and lung diseases, evaluating abdominal pain, locating foreign objects, detecting scoliosis and sinusitis, among many other things.
How can I prepare for this test?
No special preparation is necessary. However, it is very important to inform the technologist if you are or may be pregnant, because radiation can be harmful to the fetus. You may be asked to change into shorts or a gown depending on the examination.
How is the test done?
You will be asked to sit, stand, or lie down between the X-ray machine and the X-Ray film. The technologist will then position your body to obtain the necessary views. Next, the machine will be aligned to the area being X-rayed. The technologist will then leave the area to stand behind a lead shield. Just prior to making the exposure, the technologist will ask you to hold still and may give you breathing instructions.
How long does the test take?
X-rays only takes a few minutes, depending on the amount of exams being done. Also, they do not need to be scheduled; you'll be taken on a first come first serve basis.
How are the results used?
Our X-rays are stored on a computer system. After the X-ray exam is completed, the images are transmitted to a radiologist for interpretation. A report is then sent back to your physician, who will contact you with the results.
What else do I need to know?
X-rays are painless, however the table is hard on the back, the room may be cool, and the position that you may need to be in, may be uncomfortable. Routine X-rays have no side effects.
Often people are concerned about the amount of radiation they are receiving. The amount of radiation from an X-ray exam has little risk of damage to the cells in your body. For most X-ray exams, the benefits of a medically needed exam are thought to far out-weigh the small risk. Also, great care is taken to use the lowest radiation dose possible to produce a diagnostic image. No radiation remains in the room after the X-ray exam.
If you would like more information about X-ray services in Indiana, contact us at 219-922-3009 and one of our helpful staff will be happy to assist you.
