X-ray Imaging

X-rays are a painless imaging process used to create pictures of the internal structures of the body. The relevant body part is exposed to a controlled amount of invisible ionizing radiation. As the X-ray beams pass through your body, they are absorbed in different amounts, depending on the density of the body part being examined. The resulting image is recorded on a digital device. This image is then viewed on a high-resolution monitor for interpretation and reviewed by a physician called a radiologist.

For some types of X-ray tests, a contrast medium—such as iodine or barium—is introduced into your body to provide greater imaging detail.

Typically, the radiation dosage for one picture is about the same as you receive from background radiation over a 10-day period. As further protection, the technologist will often cover sensitive areas of the body, such as reproductive organs, with lead shielding, if the area is not of clinical interest.

There is no preparation required for most X-rays.

Fluoroscopy

X-rays show images of the body at rest, which is certainly useful to diagnose broken bones and other conditions. When physicians need to observe body structures in motion, they turn to fluoroscopy. This imaging technique uses a continuous X-ray beam that is passed through the body part being examined. The beam creates an X-ray “movie” that the radiologist can study in real time, through a monitor, and record for later examination. Fluoroscopy can be used to evaluate specific areas of the body including the digestive tract, reproductive organs, swallowing function, and lung movement.

A Commitment to the Latest Advancements in X-ray Technology

Radiology technology is always evolving towards clearer, more detailed imaging and new, minimally invasive procedures. MarinHealth is committed to staying on the cutting edge. To this end, we now provide the highest fidelity direct digital X-ray units at our main campus and our Outpatient Imaging Centers in Greenbrae and San Rafael. This advanced technology improves clinical outcomes and provides greater efficiency while reducing X-ray exposure to our patients.

Appointments

No appointment is necessary to receive x-ray screenings at any of our Outpatient Imaging Centers — patients requiring x-ray screenings will be seen on a first-come, first-serve basis. If you have any questions, please call the respective office directly.