What is Digital Radiography (x-ray)?

Most people are familiar with common x-ray procedures for imaging the chest, abdomen or bones. Traditional x-rays involve exposing a part of the body to a small dose of radiation to produce an image of the internal organs and bones on a sheet of film. New Century Imaging uses state-of-the-art technology where the a digital detector is used, thereby decreasing the radiation exposure by more than 50% of that traditional units.

How is the procedure performed?

Depending on the area being imaged, you may be required to remove clothing and/or jewelry and wear a loose-fitting gown. For a chest x-ray exam, you will stand with the chest pressed to the photographic plate, with hands on hips and elbows pushed in front in a somewhat exaggerated position. The technologist will ask you to be still and to take a deep breath and hold it. This not only reduces the possibility of a blurred image but also enhances the quality of the image since air-filled lungs are easier to see on x-ray film than deflated lungs. An addition image is obtained after you are positioned sideways to the photographic plate. The back-to-front image is called a posteroanterior view. The side image is called a lateral view. Views from other angles may be obtained if the radiologist needs to evaluate additional areas of the chest. Images of other structures including bones will either have you sitting or in a lying position while the particular area of interest is positioned for the image.

Are there any risks associated with Digital x-ray?

X-rays do require exposure to radiation. Our specialized equipment minimize the effective radiation dose to about .05mSv, which is about the same as the average person receives from backround radiation in 5 days. Special care is taken during an x-ray exam to ensure maximum safety for patients by shielding the abdomen and pelvis with a lead apron if they are not being imaged. Women should inform their doctors or the technologist if there is any possibility that they are pregnant.