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X RAY
What is it
X-rays are a form of radiant energy, which penetrate various tissues of
the body differentially, in the process capturing shadows and reflections
on the photographic plate. The radiologist can view these on photographic
film, on a TV or computer monitor. The films created by X rays show different
features of the body in various shades of gray.Some X-ray exams improve
visibility by using contrast, a range of substances, which are opaque
to X-rays. The contrast may be introduced by injection, patient swallowing
the dye himself or enema. In fluoroscopy, X-rays are used to capture a
moving image of an organ on the screen while it is functioning.
Why is it done?
A chest X-ray is usually done for the evaluation of lungs, heart &
surrounding anatomy. Many diseases like pneumonia, heart failure, pleurisy,
lung infections like TB and lung cancer can be diagnosed or suspected
on a chest x-ray, along with other less common conditions. X-ray images
of skull, spine, joints & extremities are performed to assist the
physician in identifying & treating fractures, bone infections, and
diagnose and monitor the progression of degenerative diseases such as
arthritis and cancer.
How is it done?
There is no special preparation required for the plain radiographs. Patient
is asked to change into a gown before the examination & to remove
jewellary, eyeglasses, any metal objects that could obscure the images
for the chest x ray. Normally, the patient will stand with the chest pressed
to the photographic plate, with hands on hips & elbows pushed in front.
The radiographer will ask the patient to be still & to take a deep
breath & hold it. He will activate the radiographic equipment, which
will send a beam of x-rays from behind the patient, through the patient¡¦s
chest, to the film behind the plate, thus exposing the film.
For the plain radiography of
any other body part the radiographer positions the patient on the examination
table, places the cassette under the table in the area of the body to
be imaged. Sandbags or pillow may help the patient hold the proper position.
Then the radiographer activate the radiographic equipment & asks the
patient to hold very still for a few seconds. The beam of x-rays is send
through the body to expose the film.
The radiographer then repositions
the patient for another view (If required) & the process is repeated.
The radiographer will remove the photographic plate & process the
x-ray film in the automatic film processor. When the x-rays are completed
patient is asked to wait until the radiographer & radiologists examine
the images to determine if more x-rays are needed
When it is done/advised ?
Chest X-ray is done to evaluate shortness of breath, a bad or persistent
cough, a chest pain, chest injury, fever or on many occasions as general
screen. Because X-ray imaging is so fast & easy, it is particularly
useful in emergency diagnosis & treatment.
Before ... Precautions & prerequisites
You can directly report to the reception of the department after
you are seen by the physician who fills the requisition from for the x-rays.
For the special radiographic procedure prior appointment & instructions
are taken from the department of radiodiagnosis & imaging.
PREPARATION FOR THE SERVICE: No preparation is required by the patient
for the plain x-rays. Routine medicines may be taken.
Tariff
Chest Rs 150/-
Portable Rs 250/-
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