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| Diagnostic X-ray What is it? A diagnostic x-ray is the oldest and most common medical radiology procedure. Radiologists use X-rays (a form of radiation) to help diagnose disease or injury inside your body. A machine directs a small, carefully calculated amount of radiation toward a specific part of the body to produce an image on a film on the other side of the body. Radiologists study the x-ray images to detect and diagnose disease or injury. Where is it done? Diagnostic x-rays can be done in a hospital or a clinic in Ontario Why is it important? Diagnostic X-ray is important because it's a procedure that's vital to better medical care. Often it's the only way to detect causes of certain health problems or to prevent illness from becoming serious due to lack of prompt treatment. What to expect Patient will have to stand, sit or may be asked to lie down for the procedure depending on what area of the body is being x-rayed. During the procedure staff assisting the patient will leave for brief periods to take the x-ray. Patients are normally able to speak with staff before and after the actual x-ray is taken, however in most cases a patient will be asked to hold their breath while the x-ray is being taken to ensure there isn't any movement which could blur the image. A patient will be asked to remove all jewellery, eyeglasses, hair clips and even dentures and hearing aids. If a patient suspects she is pregnant it is important to tell your doctor or the technologist taking the x-rays. How long does it take? Depending on what part of the body is being x-rayed, the procedure could take from about 15 minutes to an hour. Actual exposure time to radiation is minimal. Preparation for an x-ray? None. What are some common uses of Diagnostic X-ray?
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