diagnostic radiology overview

What Is Diagnostic Radiology?

An x-ray (radiograph) is a noninvasive medical test that helps physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions. Imaging with x-rays involves exposing a part of the body to a small dose of ionizing radiation to produce pictures of the inside of the body. X-rays are the oldest and most frequently used form of medical imaging.

A bone x-ray makes images of any bone in the body, including the hand, wrist, arm, foot, ankle, knee, leg or spine. The chest x-ray is the most commonly performed diagnostic x-ray examination. A chest x-ray makes images of the heart, lungs, airways, blood vessels and the bones of the spine and chest.

Lower gastrointestinal (GI) tract radiography, also called a lower GI or barium enema, is an x-ray examination of the large intestine, also known as the colon. This includes the right or ascending colon, the transverse colon, the left or descending colon, sigmoid colon and the rectum. The appendix and a portion of the distal small intestine may also be included.

Preparation For Exam

Preparation is minimal and varies depending on the body area to be examined. Preparation instructions will be given when the exam is scheduled. If you are pregnant please inform the staff as soon as possible.

Exam Time

Exams vary in length but usually do not exceed 30 minutes.

Exam Results

After your exam, the radiologist will review your images and a report will be sent directly to your physician. Reports are available within 24 to 72 hours.