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    Orthopedics

    Bone X-ray

    A bone X-ray is a way to take pictures of bones. It may also be called bone radiography. In this test, a low dose of radiation is passed through the body, producing digital images of the bones or images on a piece of film.

    X-ray of an arm and hand showing a broken wrist
    X-ray of a broken wrist

    Why might I need a bone X-ray?

    X-rays of bones may be taken to:

    • Find breaks or chips (fractures) in the bones

    • Make sure that a fracture has been properly set for healing, or make sure that a fracture has healed properly

    • Plan surgery on the spine and joints, or check the results of this surgery

    • Guide surgery, such as a spinal repair or fusion, joint replacement, and fracture reduction

    • Find foreign objects in soft tissues around or in the bones

    • Monitor the progress of arthritis and other bone or joint diseases

    • Detect and diagnose bone cancer

    How do I get ready for a bone X-ray?

    • You may be asked to change into a hospital gown (depending on the area of your body being examined)

    • Tell the technologist if there is any chance that you are pregnant.

    • Remove hair clips, jewelry, dentures, and other metal items that could show up on the X-ray.

    What happens during a bone X-ray?

    You will lie, sit, or stand so that the part of your body being examined is underneath the X-ray equipment. The technologist will position you.

    • Certain parts of your body, such as your reproductive organs, may be shielded to protect them from radiation.

    • You will need to remain still while the X-rays are being taken. Pillows and foam pads may be used to help you stay in position.

    • You may be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds at a time.

    • You may need to hold several positions so that more than one view may be taken.

    What are the risks of a bone X-ray?

    Your healthcare provider can discuss the risks of X-rays with you. In most cases, the benefits of bone X-ray far outweigh the risks.

    What happens after a bone X-ray?

    The whole procedure usually takes less than 15 minutes.

    • You'll be asked to wait until the technologist has looked at the images to see if more need to be done.

    • A doctor called a radiologist will look at the X-ray results and send a report to your healthcare provider.

    • Your healthcare provider will discuss the results with you when the images are ready.

    Online Medical Reviewer: Louise Cunningham RN BSN
    Online Medical Reviewer: Neil Grossman MD
    Online Medical Reviewer: Raymond Turley Jr PA-C
    Date Last Reviewed: 4/1/2022
    © 2000-2024 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
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    Southern New Mexico
    Surgery Center

    2301 Indian Wells Rd. Suite B
    Alamogordo, NM 88310
    www.snmsc.org

    Phone: 575.437.0890
    Fax: 575.437.0905
    Email: info@snmsc.org

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