Procedure
X-ray is a medical imaging procedure ordered by your physician to diagnose disease or injury of a specific body part. Your cooperation, preparation and overall understanding are essential to getting the most accurate picture. There are different kinds of Diagnostic X-ray procedures. Several kinds of equipment can be used based on the procedure and body part that needs to be studied. The goal is the same, regardless of the procedure, as they all provide vital information about what’s going on in your body. Any risk of x-rays is far outweighed by its benefits, as x-rays can provide early detection of health problems and allow treatment to be given as quickly as possible. X-rays pose the greatest risk to unborn babies. That is why it is so important to notify your physician of your pregnancy, or possibility of pregnancy, prior to any x-ray procedure. Radiation protection devices are routinely used to prevent unnecessary radiation exposure to other body parts.
Expectations
Upon arrival at the UMC Outpatient Department, you will be registered and then escorted to the Radiology Department. If you are scheduled for an exam that requires an injection of x-ray dye or contrast and are over the age of 40 or have a history of renal disease, you will be taken to the lab first for a simple blood test called a Creatinine. It will take approximately 30-45 minutes to receive the results of this blood work, but is required before initiating your exam. The contrast exams include, but not limited to:
•IVP (Intravenous Pyelogram)
•Venogram
•Port-o-Gram
•Shunt-o-Gram
A Radiologic Technologist will greet you and bring you to the procedure room. There, they will obtain a brief medical history, discuss your symptoms and fully explain your procedure to you.
Our technologists are fully licensed and certified by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). Every two years they must complete 24 CME (Continuing Medical Education) credits in their field. The technologist works closely with a specially trained Medical Doctor called a Radiologist to ensure accurate results.
Examination/Time
You may lie on a table, sit in a chair or stand in front of a cassette holder on the wall during your exam, depending on the type of exam that your physician has ordered. The number of pictures taken varies, also depending on the type of exam, which will determine how long your procedure should take. The technologist will carefully position you for the ideal image quality. For the best results, it is very important to hold still and follow all instructions.
Preparation
Your help is necessary for your healthcare provider to ensure that your procedure goes smoothly. Please be sure to:
•Notify the technologist if you are or may be pregnant.
•Bring a list of your current medications, including any over-the-counter drugs, along with dosages and how often they are taken.
•Provide information regarding your health history and medical condition; do you have allergies or asthma or have you had a previous x-ray contrast reaction?
•Ask questions PRIOR to your exam. Ensure that you understand why you are having an x-ray and how long it takes. It is important that you follow any “special” instructions given to you regarding diet, clothing, cosmetics, jewelry, etc.
Radiology Professionals
The Radiologist – a Medical Doctor (M.D.) that has additional specialized training after Medical School in performing x-ray procedures and interpreting (“reading”) x-ray images.
The Radiologic Technologist (R.T.) - a healthcare professional that has been specially trained in operating x-ray equipment, obtaining x-ray images and patient care that has passed a national exam given by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).
The Radiology Nurse – a Registered Nurse (R.N.) specially trained in ensuring that your x-ray procedure is comfortable and assisting the Radiologist and Radiologic Technologists as needed during any procedure.
Results
After the exam is completed, the Radiologist will study the exam and dictate a report of the findings of the exam. If more information is needed after the pictures are reviewed, more x-rays may be taken. The report is typed and faxed to your ordering physician, typically within one-two days. Your physician will present the findings of your exam to you.