Digital X-Ray
What is an X-Ray?
A digital x-ray, also known as digital radiography (DR), is a modern imaging technique that uses electronic sensors instead of traditional photographic film to capture x-ray data. When x-rays pass through the body, the sensors detect the varying amounts of radiation absorbed by different tissues. This information is then immediately converted into a digital image that can be viewed on a screen.
No appointment is necessary for an x-ray at Nepean Diagnostics. Simply walk-in with your referral.
What conditions can be diagnosed with X-Rays?
X-Rays can be used to diagnose of number of conditions including:
- Fractures and breakages in the bones
- Scoliosis
- Dental issues (i.e. loose or crooked teeth and abscesses)
- Cancerous and benign (non-cancerous) bone tumours
- Lung conditions (i.e. pneumonia and lung cancer)
- Heart conditions
What should you wear?
You will need to remove any metallic items, such as jewellery, watches, eyewear and belts around the region of interest, as these items can show up on the x-ray.
You may be asked to remove any clothing obstructing the area to be examined and given a hospital gown to wear instead, so you should try and wear something that is comfortable and easy to remove.
What happens during the procedure?
The exact procedure will depend on the area which needs to be examined. You may be required to stand, sit or lie down on a table.
The actual x-ray will only take a few seconds, but you will need to keep completely still during this time to ensure that the image is clear, as movement can result in a blurred image.
After your procedure
Depending on the reason for the x-ray and the suspected condition, the radiologist may discuss the results with you immediately or send off the results to your GP or specialist.
There are no restrictions after your examination.
Your results
After your examination, the images from your study will be available on the patient image portal. A report, along with the images will be sent directly to your referring doctor. Nepean Diagnostics will store digital copies of all studies on our secure database for comparison with any future examinations.
It is important that you return to your doctor to discuss your examination results. Whether they are normal or abnormal, your doctor needs to know so that a management plan can be formulated.
