What is an X-Ray?

An x-ray is a medical test that physicians use to diagnosis and treat their patient's medical conditions. It is the oldest and most commonly used form of medical testing. An X - ray is a painless and quick test for the patient to endure. It involves exposing the part of the body that is being examined to a small dose of ionizing radiation to produce pictures of the inside of the body.

X -ray is also used to diagnose various conditions of the lungs including pneumonia, tumors and changes of heart failure. It also is used to diagnose fractures and other abnormalities of bones, joint conditions, and causes of abdominal pain.

How X-Ray Works?

X-Rays work by sending small amounts of radiation through the body to expose a film on the other side of the part being imaged. This film then is developed by the technologist and can be read by a Radiologist. If an X-Ray has been ordered, your doctor has decided that its value outweighs any risk.

Preparing for X-Ray exam

• No advance preparation is required.
  
• Eat normally and take any medication as usual, unless your doctor has given you other instructions.
• Open 7 Days a Week - Walk-ins Welcome
• Patients do not need an appointment at South Coast Advanced Imaging.
• Patients are seen as quickly as possible on a walk-in basis. Our staff will let patients know of any delays.

During The Tests

• You will lie (usually on your back) on a movable bed. The bed will slide into the donut-shaped CT scanner. Depending on the type of scan, an IV line may be placed in your hand or arm. A saline solution and contrast material may be injected during the test. The technologist will leave the room. She will give you directions via an intercom. The machine will take a series of pictures of the area of your body that is being studied. Your bed may move slightly between pictures.

After The Test

Once your scan is complete, your technician will show you back to the changing rooms and give you your locker key so that you can dress again. You will need to wait for the technician to review your images. In some cases, more images will need to be taken. Otherwise you are then welcome to leave.