X-ray

X-rays are the oldest and most frequently used form of imaging to see inside the human body.

X-rays are a form of radiation, like light or radio waves. They are focused into a beam that can pass through objects, including the human body. When an x-ray is done, the rays pass through the body and strike a detector, which forms an image of the inside of the body.

The x-rays are absorbed by different body tissues in varying degrees. Dense tissue, like bone, absorbs most the x-rays and consequently appears white on the x-ray image. Less dense tissue absorbs less x-rays, allowing more rays to pass through and strike the detector. These tissues show on the image in various shades of gray. X-rays that pass through air, in the lungs and colon for example, aren’t absorbed at all. These spaces appear black on the x-ray image.

This page contains the following information about x-rays:

Reasons for Having an X-ray

X-rays have many uses. They are the fastest way for a doctor to assess bone fractures. They are also commonly used to examine the breasts (mammography), gastrointestinal tract, chest, abdomen, spine and skull.

Risks Involved in an X-ray

There is the risk of x-ray exposure; however, it is well below the level that generally causes adverse affects.

Conditions to Let Our Doctor Know About

In advance of your exam, let your Invision Sally Jobe radiologist or technologist know if any of the following circumstances apply to you:

Insurance Coverage

X-rays are usually covered by insurance. You would typically be referred by another physician for an x-ray to investigate a problem you're having.

Exam Locations

A x-ray can be done at the following Invision Sally Jobe locations in the Denver, Colorado area:

Scheduling This Exam

Since x-rays are often needed in emergency situations, appointments are not needed. You may receive an x-ray on a walk-in basis at any of our locations listed above. If you have any questions about x-ray exams, please call 720-493-3700.

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Preparation Guidelines

You do not need to do anything in particular to prepare for an x-ray exam.

What to Expect During Your Exam

Before your x-ray, you will be asked to remove eyeglasses, earrings, hair accessories or other metal objects that could interfere with the x-ray image. You may be asked to partially disrobe, depending on the body part that needs to be x-rayed. If so, you will be given a paper drape to cover yourself. Invision Sally Jobe provides secure lockers for your personal items during your exam.

When ready for your exam, which will take about 15 minutes, the technologist will answer any questions you have. You will be positioned on the table and must remain as still as possible. You may be covered with a lead apron to avoid unnecessarily exposing other body parts to radiation.

Usually multiple x-rays from varying angles are required to fully show the body part. The technologist will reposition you for each x-ray.

X-rays are painless, but you may experience some discomfort from lying on the cold, hard table or from maintaining awkward positions so clear images can be taken.

Recovering from Your Exam

You can return to your normal activities immediately after your exam.

Getting Your Exam Results

Trained radiologists interpret all exams then report the specific results to the physician who ordered your exam. In turn, your physician will pass the results onto you. Our radiologists and technologists will be happy to answer questions about the exam procedure itself; however, you will not receive your results from the technologist who performs your exam.

Additional Information

The information on this page was taken in part from some of the following web sites. Visit these sites for additional information on x-rays.

Sources

X-ray exams are focused into a beam that passes through the human body and strikes a detector, where an image is formed of the inside of the body. X-rays are the fastest way for a doctor to check for broken bones.