X-ray

X-ray

An X-ray provides a picture of inside the body by using special radioactive rays. An X-ray can show bones, tissues or parts of organs.

HAVING AN X-RAY

An x-ray is a special picture that helps the doctor see an area inside your
body. This picture allows your doctor to learn more about your body. There
are many reasons for taking an x-ray. One of the most common is to find
out if a bone is broken and where the break is located. Another reason for
taking an x-ray is to see an area of your body, such as your chest. A chest
x-ray shows the size, shape, and position of your heart and lungs.

GETTING READY FOR THE EXAM

When you arrive at the radiology department, one of the radiographers (the
person who will be taking your x-ray) will explain to you and your parents
what your x-ray will be and how it will be done. Then he or she will take
you into a special room where you will see a large table. Depending on
what area of your body the doctor wants a picture of, the radiographer may
ask you to change into a gown so that things such as buttons and zippers do
not show up on your x-ray picture.

THE TEST

The radiographer will show you where to lie, sit, or stand. He or she will
move the camera so that it points to the part of your body that the doctor
wants x-rayed. The camera will not hurt of touch you. Next, the radiographer will ask you to hold very still while he or she goes to another part of the room to take your picture. You will hear a buzz when your picture is taken. The radiographer may then show you a different way to lie or stand and probably take another picture or two. The procedure will take several minutes. When everything is finished, you will be released.

AFTER THE TEST

The radiologist will look at the x-ray pictures and tell your doctor the things he or she wants to know about the inside of your body.

QUESTIONS

If you have any questions about the test, please don’t hesitate to ask your radiographer, nurse, or doctor.

Contact Information

Driscoll Children's Hospital Radiology
3533 South Alameda Street
Corpus Christi, Texas 78411
1-800-DCH-LOVE
(361) 694-5240
To schedule an exam (361) 694-6132