X-Ray

X-rays are the oldest kind of diagnostic imaging, dating back over 100 years, and they’re still in common use. LA MRI Center, Inc., based in  Koreatown,  Los Angeles, California, offers digital X-rays to complement its magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) service through its sister practice, Burbank Imaging and Open MRI, located in Burbank, California. X-rays are ideal for assessing broken bones and lung conditions, offering fast, straightforward access to essential diagnostics. Call Burbank Imaging and Open MRI @ 818- 561-4567  to inquire about having an X-ray or schedule a consultation online today.

What is an X-ray?

An X-ray (radiograph) involves transmitting a small quantity of ionizing radiation (an invisible energy force) through part of your body. This produces images of the internal structures to help diagnose medical symptoms.

Radiation passes through most materials other than lead. As it enters your cells, they absorb the radiation at different rates. Bone is the densest material in your body, absorbing the most radiation. As a result, your bones appear white on the image an X-ray produces.

Soft tissues like fat, organs and muscles absorb less radiation, so they appear in various gray shades. Air in your body looks black on an X-ray.

Why would I need an X-ray?

Your provider might order X-rays for several reasons. They offer a fast, straightforward way to diagnose chronic bone and joint conditions like arthritis and osteoporosis. Bone and joint injuries are also usually evident on X-rays, so your provider can assess acute problems like fractures and dislocations.

X-rays also give your provider valuable information that helps them diagnose medical conditions, such as:

• Pneumonia
• Emphysema
• Lung tumors
• Congestive heart failure
• Abdominal pain
• Kidney stones
• Bowel obstruction
• Eye injuries

Doctors use X-rays to help with treatments in some cases. For example, X-rays offer guidance to ensure a surgeon realigns fractured bones correctly before fixing them in place. X-rays also help your provider evaluate how well your fractures heal and what effect any treatment you receive has on your condition.

What happens when I have an X-ray?

Having an X-ray is painless and noninvasive, so you don’t need any anesthetic or sedation.

The. technician positions you so the area requiring the X-ray is between the imaging plates ensuring you’re in close contact with the plates to achieve the best results. If the area needing X-raying is small, the technician covers the rest of your body with a lead shielding to reduce unnecessary radiation exposure.

The technician goes to an adjoining room to take the X-rays. You must keep still and hold your breath to produce a clear image — the technician will tell you when to do this. The entire X-ray procedure typically takes 10-15 minutes depending on how many X-rays you need.

Your provider discusses the results with you afterward and recommends treatment where required.

Call Burbank Imaging and Open MRI to learn more about X-rays, or book an appointment online today.