Digital X-Rays

Benefits of digital X-ray

One obvious benefit of computed radiation is that it is much “greener” than traditional X-ray procedures because used film does not have to be discarded. The use of chemicals to develop the film is eliminated and replaced by laser scanning images saved to a computer hard drive or written to a DVD.

At Radiology Associates of Hartford, we have equipment that operates using the lowest possible amount of radiation necessary for quality images at all four of our Central Connecticut locations
The entire process takes less time than traditional radiology
The referring physicians can view the requested image on a desktop or personal computer and often report in just a few minutes after the exam.
Darkrooms are not required to produce an image
“Greener” solution since there are no plastic and cardboard film protectors and lead sheets

What are some common uses of digital X-ray?

Identifying and treating of bone fractures
View, monitor or diagnose joint injuries and infections, arthritis, artery blockages, abdominal pain
Locate foreign objects in soft tissue
Detection and diagnosis of advanced forms of cancer (i.e. mesothelioma)

How should I prepare for a digital X-ray?

A requisition form is required from your referring physician. Please bring this completed form with you at the time of your appointment.

Please inform the technologist, if there is any possibility, that you are pregnant.

No special preparation / instruction is required for most general X-rays
You may be asked to change into a gown
In some cases, you are provided with a lead apron to protect areas of the body not being examined

What should I expect during this exam?

You will be greeted by our experienced, certified X-ray technologist; an important member of the medical team. The technologist will escort you to the exam room. The X-ray exam usually takes between 5 and 30 minutes.

You will be asked to stand near a cassette holder or lie on an exam table for positioning
Placement of a cassette is positioned in area of the body to be imaged
Pillows may be used to help you hold the proper position
The technologist steps behind a radiation barrier and asks you to hold very still, without breathing for a few seconds
The X-ray equipment is activated, and radiation exposure to the cassette occurs
You may be repositioned for additional views and the process is repeated
When your exam is completed, you will be asked to wait until the technologist checks the images

What will I experience during an X-ray?

X-ray imaging is painless
Some discomfort may result from lying on the table, a hard surface that may feel cold
To get a clear image of an injury such as a possible fracture, you may be asked to hold an uncomfortable position for a short time. Any movement could blur the image and make it necessary to repeat the procedure.

How do I obtain results?

At Radiology Associates of Hartford, we have a radiologist on site at all times so the test will be interpreted and result will be phoned, faxed, mailed or delivered electronically to the referring physician. The referring physician will share the results with you.

Digital X-ray services at Radiology Associates of Hartford do not require an appointment. Feel free to walk in for fast, convenient service. We have radiology imaging locations in Avon, Bloomfield, Enfield, Rocky Hill and Glastonbury, Connecticut.

If you have questions, please call us at (860) 969-6400.

For more information on this topic, please visit www.Radiologyinfo.org.