For the convenience of our patients, FPA offers onsite X-Ray and Ultrasound services to assist the doctors in the diagnosis of certain medical conditions. Our certified radiology tech is available daily to perform these services.
What is an x-ray?
An x-ray is a non-invasive test that produces a picture of a part of the body using ionizing radiation.
Who needs an x-ray?
You may need an x-ray to determine if a bone is broken. An x-ray also helps the doctor determine proper alignment of your bones. Other ways an x-ray helps a doctor may include to find presence of an injury or to assist during surgery.
What happens before and during an x-ray?
You may be asked to remove clothing, glasses, and jewelry. Metal objects may interfere with the x-ray imaging. You may put on a gown. You will also wear a lead apron to minimize exposure to the radiation. The technician will position your body according to what part of the body needs the x-ray. You may either stand up or lie down on a table. You may be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds while the tech takes the x-ray. You x-ray should take no longer than a few minutes.
The doctor will then read your x-ray before your exam is complete. The doctor will go over any findings with you from the x-ray and determine if any further action is needed.
What is an ultrasound?
An ultrasound uses sound waves to produce an image within the body. Some areas an ultrasound is performed on include your bladder, gallbladder, thyroid, uterus, and legs.
Who needs an ultrasound?
You may need an ultrasound to view the uterus if pregnant or for other obstetric reasons.
Some other uses for an ultrasound include:
- Locating gallstones in the gallbladder
- Scanning for foreign objects
- Viewing possible ruptured appendix
- Scanning for congenital defects
- Scanning for tumors or cysts
What to expect before an ultrasound?
Depending on the kind of ultrasound, the procedure may take anywhere from 15 to 45 minutes. You will be informed of any needed preparation prior to the procedure.
What happens during an ultrasound?
During the procedure, a transducer views the organ and produces a picture. The transducer will detect an echo between two kinds of tissue. The tissues conduct different sounds. The sound waves from the tissues will bounce back to the transducer, creating an echo. The computer analyzes the echoes in the ultrasound machine and creates a moving picture of the organ or tissues.
As with any test, you should contact your doctor for the results of your x-ray or ultrasound to see if any further action needs to be taken.
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