Download CR (Computed Radiography) - Bellaire Diagnostic Imaging

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What is Digital Radiography (x-ray)?
X-rays are a form of radiation that can be focused into a
beam but unlike a beam of light, X-rays are able to pass
through most objects, including the human body. Once Xrays strike through photographic film, than can produce a
picture. Dense tissue, such as bones absorbs many of the
X-rays and appear white on an X-ray picture. Less dense
tissue, such as muscles and organs, absorb fewer of the xrays and appear in shades of gray while x-rays that pass
only through air appear black on an x-ray picture. Most
people are familiar with common x-ray procedures for
imaging the chest, abdomen or bones.
Various forms of digital imaging are replacing the
conventional film-screen imaging systems which have
been used over the last 100 plus years. New Century
Imaging uses state-of-the-art technology where the digital
detector is used. This decreases the radiation exposure
by more than 50% compared to traditional units. With
digital imaging, intensifying screens and films requiring
chemical processing are no longer the primary type of
image receptor. With digital imaging, the images are
reviewed by these receptors then they are processed to be
displayed on High Definition monitors that can be stored
on various types of digital storage devices, such as CD’s,
hard disk drives, or on printed film.
Bellaire Diagnostic Imaging • 9440 Bellaire Blvd., Ste #100 •Houston, Texas 77036
Phone: (832) 239-8538 • Fax: (713) 772-8082
Copyright © 2006
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How is the procedure performed?
Depending on the area being imaged, you may be
required to remove clothing and/or jewelry and wear a
loose-fitting gown. For a chest x-ray exam, you will stand
with the chest pressed to the photographic plate, with
hands on hips and elbows pushed in front in a somewhat
exaggerated position. The technologist will ask you to be
still and to take a deep breath and hold it. This not only
reduces the possibility of a blurred image but also
enhances the quality of the image since air-filled lungs
are easier to see on x-ray film than deflated lungs. An
additional image is obtained after you are positioned
sideways to the photographic plate. The back-to-front
image is called a posteroanterior view. The side image is
called a lateral view. Views from other angles may be
obtained if the radiologist needs to evaluate additional
areas of the chest.
Images of other structures including bones will either
have you sitting or in a lying position while the particular
area of interest is positioned for the image.
Are there any risks associated with Digital x-ray?
X-rays do require exposure to radiation. Our specialized
equipment minimizes the effective radiation dose significantly to
both patients and technologists. Special measures are taken
during an exam to ensure maximum safety for patients by
shielding the patient with a lead apron, to prevent unnecessary
exposure. Women should inform their doctors or the
technologist if there is any possibility that they may be pregnant.
How should I prepare for an X-Ray?
There is no special preparation required for most x-rays. Once you arrive, you may be asked to
change into a gown before your examination. You will also be asked to remove jewelry,
eyeglasses and any metal objects that could show up on the images and overlap important
findings. Women should always inform their doctor or x-ray technologist if there is any possibility
that they are pregnant.
Bellaire Diagnostic Imaging • 9440 Bellaire Blvd., Ste #100 •Houston, Texas 77036
Phone: (832) 239-8538 • Fax: (713) 772-8082
Copyright © 2006
Page 3 of 3
Is the radiation from X-ray examinations harmful?
The radiation you receive during an X-ray or single CT
examination is kept at relatively low doses. The ionizing
radiation such as X-ray, however, is known to have some harm
effects on living organisms, which are dose-dependent. The
supposed diagnostic benefit should exceed the potential risks.
Most people receive more radiation from natural sources (space
and earth) than from medical examinations. For instance; a flight
from Europe to US will give you "extra" natural radiation from
space in the same order of magnitude as a chest X-ray. If your
medical condition necessitates several X-ray examinations or
repeated CT scans over a relative short time-span, you will
receive a radiation dose of some magnitude, but the medical
benefits of those examinations are supposed to far outweigh the
risk of radiation exposure. Nevertheless, the radiologist, in cooperation with your referring doctor, will try to limit the amount of
exposure by using alternative imaging methods like ultrasound
and MRI if suitable.
Bellaire Diagnostic Imaging • 9440 Bellaire Blvd., Ste #100 •Houston, Texas 77036
Phone: (832) 239-8538 • Fax: (713) 772-8082
Copyright © 2006