General radiology

General x-ray is a quick and generally painless exam. The imaging itself causes no pain, however you may be asked to move and bend the specific body part being imaged. This image is produced by using x-ray beams to view certain anatomy inside your body, like bones. For general x-ray there is no specific preparation, although you may be asked to change and remove jewelry when you arrive.

Fluoroscopy is a study of moving body structures, similar to an x-ray "movie." It is a continuous x-ray beam that passes through the body part being examined to visualize what is being examined through "live" x-ray. The image is transmitted to a TV-like monitor so that the physician can give special instructions to you while watching the monitor. You may be asked to drink contrast mediums, fast for a certain amount of time, hold off on taking any blood thinners and may have a bowel prep, depending on the type of exam you are having. Fluoroscopy is an imaging tool that helps visualize certain problems with many body systems, including the skeletal, digestive, urinary, respiratory and reproductive system. It can help identify tears within joints, help with steroid injections for joint pain, identify infertility problems, help aid in digestive problems and so much more.

These exams may have limitations on when they can be scheduled as a physician must be present to perform the exam.

C-arm is an imaging technology that is generally used during a surgery procedure. This helps aid the surgery team in many different areas. C-arm imaging is sometimes used for placing plates and screws for badly broken bones, helping the surgeon during kidney stone and stent procedures, aiding gallbladder removal, and more. The machine itself never comes into contact with the patient during imaging. It is a "C" shaped machine that goes over the patient's specific anatomy. The technologist can take single images or live images with this technology.

Bone density scanning uses minimal x-ray radiation to produce an image of the bones that best visualizes and measures bone density. During your exam you will lay on your back and have any combination of images of both or one hip, lower back and sometimes other sites such as your forearm. A bone density scan requires very little radiation to produce the images needed, and it provides your physician with information about how strong your bones are. They will work with you to come up with a plan on how to reduce your risk of bone fractures. This can be achieved through many things such as supplementation, medication, diet, and exercise.

You will be asked to stop taking any calcium supplements for 48 hours prior to your exam. You may eat and drink foods with naturally occurring calcium in it; however, if you take any supplements that contain calcium (including Ensure, Tums, etc.), we ask you to stop taking it for two days before your exam. This helps us get the most accurate information. Many patients can benefit from having a bone density test, but please check with your insurance on coverage, as there are some restrictions. You may benefit from a bone density test if you have a history of bone fracture, have used certain medications or have certain medical conditions, use tobacco and alcohol products, have a family history of osteoporosis, and do not exercise. Ask your family provider or schedule an appointment with GRHC Bone and Joint Health Clinic by calling 608.723.2131.