At St. Elizabeth's Medical Center, we utilize state-of-the-art digital radiography and computerized imaging technology.
Radiographs, also known as X-rays or plain films, utilize a small amount of radiation, which passes through the body part and strikes the detector placed on the other side of body. The information is used to generate digital radiographs with high image quality. The patient does not need any preparation, and the test does not cause any pain or discomfort.
The high-resolution digital radiographs are transmitted and stored in our Picture Archive and Communication System (PACS). PACS allows immediate access to images for the radiologists and other physicians, resulting in accurate and timely exam interpretation.
Since radiographs use radiation, they are used only under limited circumstances in pregnant patients. If you are pregnant or suspect you may be pregnant, please inform any member of our staff. Though the risk of radiation to an unborn fetus is small, your doctor may consider an alternative imaging test. If the exam is necessary, precautions will be taken, and protective lead devices will be used to minimize radiation exposure to the fetus.
No specific preparation is required. You may be asked to change into a gown.
You may need to remove jewelry, glasses and any metallic objects since they show up on the image. You may leave immediately after the study, unless your ordering provider has requested that you wait for one of our radiologists to render a stat or urgent interpretation.
Radiography suites are located in our main department on CMP4, as well as in several outpatient office locations and our Emergency Department on the Connell Pavilion. Radiography is available seven days a week.
Radiologyinfo.org for Patients
The radiology information resource for patients. RadiologyInfo.org tells you how various X-ray, CT, MRI, ultrasound, radiation therapy and other procedures are performed. It also addresses what you may experience and how to prepare for the exams. The website contains over 200 procedure, exam and disease descriptions covering diagnostic and interventional radiology, nuclear medicine, radiation therapy and radiation safety and is updated frequently with new information. All material on the RadiologyInfo.org website is reviewed and approved by experts in the field of radiology from the ACR and RSNA, as well as other professional radiology organizations.