X-ray exams include a wide range of diagnostic procedures used to evaluate internal structures of the body. X-ray technology today is more commonly referred to as general radiography. Among many uses, general radiography exams are frequently used to evaluate bone structure, broken bones, and skeletal bone health.
Injection of contrast into a joint, such as the shoulder, elbow, or wrist, to evaluate for tears of tendons, ligaments, or cartilage. Commonly combined with tomography, CT, or MRI. Injection is performed with local anesthesia and typically takes 10-15 minutes.
Injection of x-ray contrast into the spinal canal using local anesthesia to evaluate nerve compression, most commonly for "slipped disc." Typically combined with CT. Requires approximately 60 minutes for myelogram with CT and four hours of monitored recovery time.
An x-ray technique used to detail complex bone anatomy, typically following a fracture or surgery. Excellent for evaluation of metallic surgical hardware. Occasionally combined with arthrography. Procedure takes approximately 45-60 minutes.
CT is an x-ray technique that produces cross-sectional imaging, allowing the technologist and radiologist to visualize internal structures at great detail. These images may be used to both diagnose and treat many diseases of the body. CT exams require different patient preparation depending upon the procedure. Some exams require injection and/or oral liquid contrast. A CT exam requires approximately 30 minutes.
MRI uses a powerful magnetic field and radio waves to create an image without radiation. It provides excellent soft tissue and bone detail. Some cases require an intravenous injection or an arthrogram in conjunction with the scan. Closed and flared MRI exams require approximately 45 minutes to complete. Exams on the OPEN MRI require 60 minutes.