Digital X-ray

X-ray is a type of invisible light with high energy that can partially travel through the patient’s body. Some parts of the body block X-ray more than others. The bone blocks most amount of the rays (if there is metal or contrast material in the body, it will block even more) and air blocks the least. By taking a “picture” of the body with X-ray, a shadow is created, and that shadow is interpreted by a radiologist. When your doctor is asking you to get an X-ray, it usually means that you get a “picture” taken of the area where he or she is concerned where there may be an abnormality.

MRC was one of the first Imaging Centers in Egypt to install a digital x-ray system. Digital x-ray allows the technologist to see the images they have taken of the patient within 10 seconds of making the exposure. It allows the radiologist immediate access to any and all cases requiring an immediate read and reporting. It saves the patient from any additional exposure as a result of images being too dark or too light, as the computer can manipulate all images once acquired. Our decision to invest in digital technology for even the most ordinary x-ray procedures illustrates our commitment to our patients. We are dedicated to maximizing image quality, minimizing patient exposure and all in the shortest time possible.

Why is it used?

X-rays are used for a variety of diagnoses, including discovering the cause of unexplained pain or other symptoms of injury or disease. Conditions often diagnosed through the use of X-rays include:

Cancer
Bone injuries and disorders such as arthritis or osteoporosis
Tooth decay
Problems affecting the digestive tract
Infections

If further testing is required, X-rays may be followed up with other diagnostic imaging techniques, such as MRI, PET, CT scans or ultrasound.

What can I expect?

Depending on the purpose of the X-ray, it can last anywhere from a few minutes to an hour. During the X-ray procedure, the patient will be properly positioned under the X-ray machine to ensure accurate imaging of the affected area. This process may be repeated for additional views of region and the patient may be instructed to change positions.

X-ray equipment emits only a small amount of radiation. The risks of radiation exposure are, therefore, quite limited and the chance that X-rays will cause cell damage or mutation is extremely low. Because a fetus is more susceptible to harm from radiation, pregnant woman must inform their doctors before having X-rays.

X-ray Scans with Contrast

If contrast material has been administered, patients may experience a feeling of warmth in certain parts of the body or a metallic taste in the mouth. It is also possible that some patients will be allergic to the contrast dye. Rarely, such a reaction may be severe, but radiologists are prepared for such a contingency.

How can I prepare?

Plain X-ray:

There is no preparation necessary and the patient may resume normal activities immediately afterwards.

X-ray with Barium Enema:

Before a barium enema exam, you’ll be instructed to empty your colon. Any residue in your colon may obscure the X-ray images or be mistaken for an abnormality.

Follow a special diet the day before the exam. Do not eat or drink anything that is heavy and try to drink only clear liquids, such as water, tea or coffee without milk or cream. Do not eat meat/vegetables/dairy products.
Take a laxative the night before the exam. A laxative, in a pill or liquid form will help empty your colon.
Keep drinking a lot of water till midnight the night before the exam.
Patient should abstain from eating and drinking anything (except water) 6 hours before the procedure.
Ask your doctor about your medications. At least a week before the exam, talk with your doctor about the medications you normally take, he/she might ask you to stop taking them days or hours before the exam.

IVP:

Do not drink fizzy drinks, or food such as eggs, dairy products vegetables and fruits.
Take a laxative the night before the exam.
Eat a light dinner such as soup.
Abstain from eating or drinking for 8 hours before the exam time.

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