X-Ray

Digital X-ray involves exposing a body part to a small dose of radiation to produce an image of an internal organ. An X-ray image is produced when a small amount of radiation passes through the body and strikes an image sensitive plate placed on the other side of the body. This film is then placed in a developing machine to produce images.

X-ray images were the first form of medical imaging and have been refined to be safer than ever, delivering images that are more detailed than ever before. Fair Lawn’s diagnostic imaging can help your doctors make the best decisions about your health.

WHAT TO EXPECT?

Depending on the purpose of the X-ray, it can last anywhere from a few minutes to an hour. During the X-ray procedure, the patient will be properly positioned under the X-ray machine to ensure accurate imaging of the affected area. This process may be repeated for additional views of region and the patient may be instructed to change positions.

X-ray equipment emits only a small amount of radiation. The risks of radiation exposure are, therefore, quite limited and the chance that X-rays will cause cell damage or mutation is extremely low. Because a fetus is more susceptible to harm from radiation, pregnant woman must inform their doctors before having X-rays.

X-ray Scans with Contrast

If contrast material has been administered, patients may experience a feeling of warmth in certain parts of the body or a metallic taste in the mouth. It is also possible that some patients will be allergic to the contrast dye. Rarely, such a reaction may be severe, but radiologists are prepared for such a contingency.

HOW CAN I PREPARE?

lain X-ray:

There is no preparation necessary and the patient may resume normal activities immediately afterwards.

X-ray with Barium Enema:

Before a barium enema exam, you’ll be instructed to empty your colon. Any residue in your colon may obscure the X-ray images or be mistaken for an abnormality.

Follow a special diet the day before the exam. Do not eat or drink anything that is heavy and try to drink only clear liquids, such as water, tea or coffee without milk or cream. Do not eat meat/vegetables/dairy products.
Take a laxative the night before the exam. A laxative, in a pill or liquid form will help empty your colon.
Keep drinking a lot of water till midnight the night before the exam.
Patient should abstain from eating and drinking anything (except water) 6 hours before the procedure.
Ask your doctor about your medications. At least a week before the exam, talk with your doctor about the medications you normally take, he/she might ask you to stop taking them days or hours before the exam.

IVP:

Do not drink fizzy drinks, or food such as eggs, dairy products vegetables and fruits.
Take a laxative the night before the exam.
Eat a light dinner such as soup.
Abstain from eating or drinking for 8 hours before the exam time.