X-Rays in Mobile, AL

What Is an X-ray?

X-ray is the oldest and most frequently used form of medical imaging. X-rays can produce diagnostic images of the human body on film or digitally that allow radiologists to view and assess broken bones or other injuries. X-rays are an important tool in guiding orthopedic surgery and in the treatment of sports-related injuries. X-rays may uncover more advanced forms of cancer in bones, although early screening for cancer findings requires other methods.

The board-certified radiologists at Alabama Coastal Radiology, P.C. each offer their expertise and experience in diagnostic imaging, which often includes X-rays. Learn more about how our specialists utilize this particular type of imaging technology and what you should expect during your exam when you call to schedule an appointment at any of our eight radiology offices throughout Mobile and nearby areas. We have offices in Mobile, Saraland, Daphne, Bay Minette, and Fairhope.

What Are the Benefits of a Digital X-Ray?

• Safer – less radiation than from conventional X-rays
• Faster – takes less time because the technology can preview your images in seconds
• More comfortable – because digital imaging technology is mobile, exams often can be performed upright rather than on an examination table
• Require fewer repeat exposures – because your doctor has the ability to highlight areas of interest and magnify images for a more detailed exam.
• Enhanced image quality
• More accurate

When Might My Doctor Need to Take an X-Ray?

According to WebMD, x-rays help doctors in diagnosing a range of injuries and other disorders such as:

• Assist doctors in identifying and treating of bone fractures.
• View, monitor or diagnose joint injuries and infections, arthritis, artery blockages, abdominal pain.
• Detection and diagnosis of cancer, although usually computed tomography (CT) or MRI is better at defining the extent and the nature of a suspected cancer.

How Should I Prepare for an X-Ray?

There is no special preparation required for most bone X-rays. You may be asked to change into a gown before your examination and remove jewelry, eyeglasses and any metal objects during the exam.

Women should always inform the technologist if there is any possibility that they are pregnant.

What Should I Expect During This Exam?

An X-ray usually takes five minutes to half an hour to complete in its entirety. During this process, patients should be prepared for:

• The technologist positions you on the exam table and places a film holder under the table in the area of the body to be imaged.
• Pillows may be used to help you hold the proper position.
• Then the technologist steps behind a radiation barrier and asks you to hold very still, without breathing for a few seconds.
• The X-ray equipment is activated, sending a beam of X-rays through the body to expose the film.
• The technologist then repositions you for another view, and the process is repeated as necessary.
• When your X-rays are completed you will be asked to wait until the technologist checks the images.

What Will I Experience During an X-Ray?

• X-ray imaging is painless.
• Some discomfort may result from lying on the table, a hard surface that may feel cold.
• Sometimes, to get a clear image of an injury such as a possible fracture, you may be asked to hold an uncomfortable position for a short time. Any movement could blur the image and make it necessary to repeat the procedure.

For more information on this topic, please visit www.Radiologyinfo.org.