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My Child Has:
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Bone Radiography (X-Ray)
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Radiography, more commonly known as x-ray, is the oldest and most frequently used form of medical imaging. Images are created when the x-ray passes through bone and tissues at different intensities. The x-ray intensity is in direct relationship to how dense the tissue or bone is. This information is then captured on a plate that produces the image.
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X-rays are most commonly used to assist physicians in identifying and treating fractures. Images taken of the injured area can even show very fine hairline fractures or chips. Images taken after treatment can ensure that a fracture has been properly re-aligned and stabilized. X-rays can also be used to monitor and diagnose progression of degenerative diseases such as arthritis.
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There is no special preparation required for most bone radiographs. Once you arrive, you may be asked to change into a gown for your examination. You will also need to remove jewelry, eyeglasses and any other metal objects that could obscure the images. Women should also inform their doctor or tech if there is any possibility of pregnancy.
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The technologist will position the patient on the exam table and might use pillows or sandbags to hold the patient in the proper position. The technologist will then go into an adjacent room and ask the patient to hold very still for a few moments while the radiographic equipment is activated to take the x-ray. The patient may then be repositions to take another x-ray form a different view.
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There is no pain associated with getting an x-ray done. Sometimes an uncomfortable position may be asked to be held while taking the x-ray, but that only lasts for a very short time.
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After the images are obtained, a physician will analyze the images and send a report to your ordering physician.
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You can learn of the results of your test from your ordering physician, often times on the very same day of the x-ray.
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