Radiography (X-ray)

Radiography is the term for a general X-ray exam that captures clear, precise images. It is a painless, noninvasive, and common imaging exam that uses radiation, a form of energy that emanates from the atmosphere and earth. As with many naturally occurring substances, it is considered harmless in moderation.

X-ray beams can pass through the human body and produce a picture when they strike a detector, such as bone. These images are most often captured digitally, rather than on traditional film, so that results can be viewed in seconds.

Our X-Ray Technologists

Greenwich Hospital’s X-ray technologists are accredited by the American Registry of Radiologic Technology and licensed by the State of Connecticut. They have training in a variety of specialty areas such as special procedures, pain management and fluoroscopy.

Why would I need an X-ray?

X-rays help your doctor diagnose a wide variety of conditions including bone injuries, infections, arthritis and cancer. They offer a detailed view of the spine, fingers, toes, abdomen, urinary tract, gastrointestinal system, chest, ribs, skull, sinuses, facial bones and other specific areas of the body.

For Women…

Women who are or may be pregnant, or are breastfeeding, must alert their doctor and the technologist if they are being scheduled for an X-ray procedure.

What can I expect?

When you arrive for your X-ray, you will be greeted by a technologist who will escort you to a private changing area. You will be given a gown to change into and some instruction. The technologist will ask for your medical history and answer questions that you may have about the exam. Once your questions are answered, you will be brought into the X-ray room and your test will begin.

Depending on the part of the body being X-rayed, you may be asked to lie on a table, sit, or stand while the images are taken. You will be given a lead apron to wear to protect parts of the body that are not to be X-rayed.

Some types of X-ray exams require the use of a “contrast medium” that is either injected or taken orally. This allows the doctor to see inside blood vessels or the urinary tract.

The exam usually takes 10-45 minutes.