Radiology

of your spine x-rays, wear something comfortable that you can change out

of easily. If you wear clothing containing any metal, a hospital gown will

be provided for you. Because metal can interfere with the accuracy of the

radiograph it is important to remove any jewelry, barrettes or hairpins

from the area of interest. A radiologic technologist will explain the

procedure and answer any questions you have. If you think you are

the neck, the upper back, lower back or tail bones, or any combination of

these areas. Cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine x-rays and x-rays of the

sacrum or coccyx are usually ordered if a patient is experiencing back

pain or suffered a back injury. These x-rays can show evidence of

used to cover your reproductive organs. Sometimes the area of interest

would be hidden if a shield were used. An x-ray of the neck may be

performed while you are standing, sitting or lying down. In some cases you

may be asked to hold sandbags in order for the lower portion of the neck

to be visualized. The technologist will move you in various positions to

obtain several different images. Although x-rays of the upper and lower

back may be taken with the patient standing, they are generally taken

while lying down on an x-ray table. The technologist will move you in

various positions to obtain several different images. Sponges may be

utilized to keep you in certain positions. You may be asked to hold your

breath during a short exposure. Since any movement will blur the x-ray

image, it is important to hold still during the exposure. Please be sure

to indicate to the technologist if you are unable to comply with any of

the instructions. At this point, you will be asked to wait a few minutes

until the x-ray films have been processed. If your x-rays are acceptable,

given to a radiologist to review. A report on the results of your x-rays

will be faxed to your physician. Your physician will discuss the results