What is a pelvic X-ray used for. How is a pelvic X-ray performed. What are the potential risks of a pelvic X-ray. Who should avoid pelvic X-rays. How to prepare for a pelvic X-ray. What happens during a pelvic X-ray procedure. How long does a pelvic X-ray take.

Understanding Pelvic X-Rays: A Crucial Diagnostic Tool

Pelvic X-rays have become an indispensable diagnostic tool in modern medicine. This imaging technique allows healthcare professionals to examine the complex structure of the pelvis without invasive procedures. But what exactly is a pelvic X-ray, and how does it work?

A pelvic X-ray is a specific type of radiographic imaging that focuses on the area between your hips. This region houses numerous vital organs, including reproductive and digestive structures. The pelvis itself is composed of three main bones: the ilium, ischium, and pubis, which together form the hip joint.

The technology behind X-rays dates back to 1896 when Wilhelm Rontgen first introduced it to the public. Since then, X-ray imaging has undergone significant advancements, becoming a cornerstone in medical diagnosis and treatment planning.

When Is a Pelvic X-Ray Necessary?

Healthcare providers may recommend a pelvic X-ray for various reasons. Some common scenarios include:

• After traumatic events such as car accidents or falls
• To diagnose arthritis affecting the hip
• To detect inflammation in the sacroiliac joint (sacroiliitis)
• To identify pelvic fractures or hip dislocations
• To assess conditions like ankylosing spondylitis
• To locate tumors in the pelvic region

Is a pelvic X-ray always the best diagnostic option? While X-rays are highly effective for bone-related issues, other imaging techniques like MRI or CT scans may be more suitable for soft tissue concerns. Your healthcare provider will determine the most appropriate imaging method based on your specific symptoms and medical history.

The Pelvic X-Ray Procedure: What to Expect

Understanding the procedure can help alleviate anxiety and ensure a smoother experience. Here’s what typically happens during a pelvic X-ray:

1. You may be asked to change into a hospital gown.
2. The radiographer will position you on the X-ray table.
3. You might need to lie in different positions for multiple views.
4. The X-ray machine will be positioned over the pelvic area.
5. You’ll be asked to hold still during the exposure.
6. The process is usually quick and painless.

How long does a pelvic X-ray typically take? The actual exposure time is just a fraction of a second. However, the entire process, including positioning and potentially taking multiple views, usually takes about 15-30 minutes.

Preparing for Your Pelvic X-Ray: Essential Steps

Proper preparation can ensure the best possible results from your pelvic X-ray. Here are some key steps to keep in mind:

• Inform your doctor about any medications you’re taking.
• Remove all metal objects, including jewelry and belts.
• Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing.
• Inform the staff if you’re pregnant or might be pregnant.
• Follow any specific instructions provided by your healthcare team.

Should you fast before a pelvic X-ray? In most cases, fasting isn’t necessary for a standard pelvic X-ray. However, if your doctor has ordered additional tests or if contrast dye will be used, you may be asked to avoid eating for a certain period before the procedure. Always follow your doctor’s specific instructions.

Potential Risks and Side Effects of Pelvic X-Rays

While pelvic X-rays are generally safe, it’s important to be aware of potential risks and side effects:

• Exposure to a small amount of radiation
• Possible allergic reactions to contrast dye (if used)
• Discomfort during positioning, especially if you’re in pain

Are the radiation levels in X-rays dangerous? The radiation exposure from a single X-ray is considered safe for most adults. However, cumulative exposure over time can increase health risks. This is why healthcare providers aim to limit X-ray use to when it’s medically necessary.

Special Considerations for Pregnant Women

Pregnant women or those who suspect they might be pregnant should inform their healthcare provider before undergoing a pelvic X-ray. While the radiation levels are generally low, there’s a potential risk to the developing fetus. In such cases, alternative imaging methods like ultrasound or MRI might be recommended.

Interpreting Pelvic X-Ray Results: What Comes Next?

After your pelvic X-ray, a radiologist will analyze the images and provide a report to your doctor. The interpretation process involves:

• Examining bone structures for fractures or abnormalities
• Assessing joint spaces for signs of arthritis
• Looking for any unusual masses or growths
• Comparing with previous X-rays, if available

How long does it take to get pelvic X-ray results? In urgent situations, preliminary results may be available within hours. However, for routine X-rays, it typically takes a few days for the full report to be ready. Your doctor will discuss the findings with you and recommend any necessary follow-up steps.

Advancements in X-Ray Technology: Beyond Traditional Imaging

X-ray technology has come a long way since its inception. Modern advancements include:

• Digital X-rays for faster processing and lower radiation doses
• Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) for bone density measurements
• 3D reconstruction capabilities for more detailed views
• Portable X-ray machines for bedside imaging

How do these advancements benefit patients? These technological improvements have led to more accurate diagnoses, reduced radiation exposure, and increased convenience for patients. For instance, digital X-rays allow for easy storage and sharing of images, facilitating better communication between healthcare providers.

Alternative Imaging Techniques: When X-Rays Aren’t Enough

While X-rays are excellent for visualizing bone structures, they have limitations when it comes to soft tissue imaging. In some cases, your doctor may recommend alternative or additional imaging techniques such as:

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
• Computed Tomography (CT) scans
• Ultrasound
• Nuclear medicine scans

Each of these techniques offers unique advantages and can provide complementary information to X-rays. For example, MRI excels at soft tissue imaging, making it ideal for assessing ligament or muscle injuries in the pelvic region.

Comparing X-Rays to Other Imaging Modalities

Here’s a brief comparison of X-rays with other common imaging techniques:

• X-rays: Best for bone imaging, quick, and widely available
• MRI: Excellent for soft tissue, no radiation, but more time-consuming
• CT: Combines X-ray technology for detailed 3D images, higher radiation dose
• Ultrasound: Real-time imaging, no radiation, but limited depth penetration

The choice of imaging modality depends on the specific clinical question, patient factors, and availability of resources.

Pelvic X-Rays in Various Medical Specialties

Pelvic X-rays play a crucial role in numerous medical specialties, including:

• Orthopedics: For assessing fractures, joint problems, and bone diseases
• Obstetrics and Gynecology: To evaluate pelvic organ positioning and abnormalities
• Urology: For detecting kidney stones and assessing urinary tract issues
• Emergency Medicine: Quick assessment of trauma patients
• Rheumatology: Evaluation of inflammatory joint conditions

How do different specialists use pelvic X-rays? Each specialty may focus on different aspects of the X-ray image. For instance, an orthopedic surgeon might pay close attention to bone alignment and density, while a gynecologist might be more interested in the position and size of pelvic organs.

The Role of Pelvic X-Rays in Cancer Detection

While X-rays are not typically the primary tool for cancer diagnosis, they can play a role in detecting certain pelvic cancers. X-rays may reveal:

• Bone metastases from other primary cancers
• Abnormal calcifications that could indicate tumors
• Changes in bone structure due to primary bone cancers

However, for soft tissue cancers, more advanced imaging techniques like CT or MRI are usually preferred.

Patient Safety and Radiation Protection in X-Ray Imaging

Ensuring patient safety during X-ray procedures is paramount. Modern X-ray facilities employ various strategies to minimize radiation exposure:

• Use of lead aprons to shield sensitive areas
• Limiting the number of exposures to only what’s necessary
• Employing digital technology to reduce radiation doses
• Regular equipment maintenance and calibration
• Strict adherence to radiation safety protocols

How can patients contribute to their own safety during X-ray procedures? Patients can play an active role in their safety by:

• Informing healthcare providers about their medical history, including previous radiation exposures
• Following all instructions provided by the radiography team
• Asking questions about the procedure and its necessity
• Keeping a personal record of imaging studies

Long-Term Considerations of Radiation Exposure

While the radiation from a single X-ray is minimal, repeated exposures over time can potentially increase health risks. It’s important to consider:

• Cumulative radiation exposure from multiple imaging studies
• The balance between diagnostic benefits and radiation risks
• Alternative imaging options when appropriate
• The importance of justifying each X-ray procedure

Healthcare providers are trained to weigh these factors carefully when recommending imaging studies.

The Future of Pelvic Imaging: Emerging Technologies

The field of medical imaging is continuously evolving, with new technologies on the horizon that could revolutionize pelvic imaging:

• Photon-counting CT scanners for ultra-low dose imaging
• Artificial Intelligence (AI) for automated image analysis
• Molecular imaging techniques for more precise diagnostics
• Hybrid imaging systems combining multiple modalities

How might these advancements impact patient care? These emerging technologies promise to deliver more accurate diagnoses, reduced radiation exposure, and potentially earlier detection of diseases. For instance, AI-assisted image analysis could help radiologists identify subtle abnormalities that might be missed by the human eye alone.

The Role of Telemedicine in Pelvic Imaging

With the rise of telemedicine, the way pelvic imaging results are delivered and discussed is also changing. Remote consultations allow for:

• Faster communication of results to patients
• Collaboration between specialists in different locations
• Improved access to expert opinions for patients in remote areas
• Reduced need for travel, especially for follow-up discussions

This integration of technology and healthcare delivery is making pelvic imaging more accessible and efficient for many patients.

Navigating Insurance and Cost Considerations for Pelvic X-Rays

Understanding the financial aspects of pelvic X-rays can help patients better prepare for their imaging studies:

• Most health insurance plans cover medically necessary X-rays
• Out-of-pocket costs can vary depending on insurance coverage and provider networks
• Some facilities offer cash pay options or sliding scale fees for uninsured patients
• Additional costs may apply for contrast agents or specialized views

How can patients manage the costs associated with pelvic X-rays? It’s advisable to:

• Check with your insurance provider about coverage and potential out-of-pocket expenses
• Inquire about payment plans or financial assistance programs at the imaging facility
• Consider seeking care at in-network providers to minimize costs
• Discuss the necessity of the X-ray with your doctor to ensure it’s the most appropriate test

The Value of Preventive Imaging

While cost is an important factor, it’s crucial to consider the long-term value of appropriate imaging studies:

• Early detection of conditions can lead to more effective and less costly treatments
• Preventive imaging can help guide lifestyle modifications to avoid future health issues
• Regular imaging can track the progression of chronic conditions, allowing for timely interventions

Balancing immediate costs with long-term health benefits is an important aspect of healthcare decision-making.

Empowering Patients: Making Informed Decisions About Pelvic X-Rays

As a patient, being well-informed about pelvic X-rays can help you make the best decisions for your health. Here are some key points to remember:

• Understand the purpose of the X-ray and how it will guide your treatment
• Don’t hesitate to ask your healthcare provider about the benefits and risks
• Consider getting a second opinion if you’re unsure about the necessity of the X-ray
• Keep records of your imaging studies to avoid unnecessary repetition
• Stay informed about new developments in imaging technology

How can patients actively participate in their imaging care? Engage in open dialogue with your healthcare providers, ask questions about alternative options, and share any concerns you may have about the procedure. Remember, you are an essential part of your healthcare team.

The Importance of Follow-Up

After undergoing a pelvic X-ray, proper follow-up is crucial:

• Ensure you understand when and how you’ll receive your results
• Schedule a follow-up appointment to discuss the findings with your doctor
• Ask about any recommended next steps or additional tests
• Report any new or worsening symptoms, even after the X-ray

Proactive follow-up can lead to more timely interventions and better health outcomes.

X-Ray of the Pelvis: Purpose, Procedure, and Risks

X-Ray of the Pelvis: Purpose, Procedure, and Risks

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Medically reviewed by William Morrison, M. D. — By Brian Krans — Updated on July 9, 2017

What is an X-ray of the pelvis?

An X-ray is a common imaging test that has been used for decades to help doctors view the inside of the body without having to open it up using surgery.

X-ray imaging went public in 1896 when Wilhelm Rontgen, who discovered X-ray imaging, took an image of the hand of anatomist Albert von Kolliker. In the hundred years or so that followed, X-ray technology has become a key element in the identification, diagnosis, and treatment of many types of medical conditions.

Today, different types of X-rays are available for specific purposes. An X-ray of the pelvis focuses specifically on the area between your hips that holds many of your reproductive and digestive organs. Your pelvis is made up of three bones, the ilium, ischium, and pubis, and it also forms your hip joint.

Like all X-rays, this test uses a small amount of radiation, so it’s generally not recommended for pregnant women or small children unless the risks of not taking it are greater than taking it.

Your doctor may order a pelvic X-ray for numerous reasons. Often, an X-ray is taken after a traumatic event, such as a car accident or a fall.

A pelvic X-ray can help your doctor detect various conditions, such as:

• arthritis that affects your hip
• inflammation where your sacrum joins the ilium, which is called sacroiliitis
• pelvic fractures
• hip dislocations
• stiffness of the spine or sacroiliac joint, which is called ankylosing spondylitis
• tumors

X-rays use small amounts of radiation. The level of exposure is considered safe for adults but not for developing fetuses. If you’re pregnant or believe you might be pregnant, tell your doctor before the procedure. They may suggest alternative testing methods that don’t use radiation, such as an MRI scan.

If you have an X-ray because of a traumatic event that causes pain and possibly a broken pelvis, you may experience additional pain during the X-ray. The test requires you to adjust your body so that clear images can be taken, and may cause you discomfort. If you’re worried, ask your doctor for pain medication before your X-ray.

For some X-rays, your doctor will inject you with a contrast dye before the procedure to improve the images. The dye, usually iodine, can cause some side effects, including:

• hives
• itching
• lightheadedness
• nausea
• a metallic taste in your mouth

In rare cases, the dye can cause a severe reaction, such as:

• anaphylactic shock
• very low blood pressure
• cardiac arrest

According to the Radiological Society of North America, X-rays are common procedures and involve little preparation.

Depending on the area to be X-rayed, you may want to wear loose, comfortable clothing that you can easily move around in. You may also be asked to change into a hospital gown for the test.

You’ll receive instructions to remove any jewelry and other metallic items from your body before you get the X-ray. Be sure to tell your doctor if you have any metal implants from prior surgeries because these can block X-rays from passing through your body.

If your test requires contrast dye, your doctor or nurse will give it to you as an injection, an enema, or a pill to swallow before the test.

If your doctor is using the X-ray to examine your intestines, they may ask you to fast for a certain amount of time beforehand or to clear out your bowels before you have the X-ray.

X-rays are performed in a hospital’s radiology department or in a clinic that specializes in diagnostic procedures. Once you’re fully prepared, an X-ray technician will explain how to position yourself to get the best images. Your technician will likely ask you to lie, sit, or stand in several positions during the test.

Some images may be taken while you stand in front of a specialized plate that contains X-ray film or sensors. In some cases, the technician will move a large camera connected to a steel arm over your body. This can capture X-ray images of your body using film or sensors held in the table.

While the images are being taken, you’ll need to hold your breath and remain still to get the clearest possible images. When your radiologist is satisfied with the images taken, the X-ray is finished. After the test, you can change back into your regular clothes and go about your normal activities right away.

Your radiologist will go over the images on a computer and then send the findings to your doctor. Results from your X-ray may be available the same day.

Your doctor will view the X-rays and the radiologist’s report and determine how their recommendation for how to proceed. They may order additional imaging scans, blood tests, or other diagnostic tests for a more complete and accurate diagnosis and to come up with a treatment plan.

Taking X-rays is a common, relatively safe way for your doctor to look for issues inside of your body. Depending on the condition, an X-ray may help your doctor diagnose your condition right away, or it may be a preliminary step toward more tests and a complete diagnosis.

Last medically reviewed on July 8, 2017

How we reviewed this article:

Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

• Mayo Clinic Staff. (2015, March 26). X-ray: Definition
  mayoclinic.com/health/x-ray/MY00307
• Pelvic fractures. (2016, February)
  orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00223
• X-ray (radiography) – Bone. (2016, April 6)
  radiologyinfo.org/en/info.cfm?pg=bonerad

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Medically reviewed by William Morrison, M.D. — By Brian Krans — Updated on July 9, 2017

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Neck X-Ray: Purpose, Procedure, and Results

Neck X-Ray: Purpose, Procedure, and Results

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Medically reviewed by Shuvani Sanyal, M. D. — By Heather Ross — Updated on July 9, 2017

What is a neck X-ray?

An X-ray is a form of radiation that passes through your body to expose a piece of film, forming an image of your body. A neck X-ray, also known as a cervical spine X-ray, is an X-ray image taken of your cervical vertebrae. This includes the seven bones of your neck that surround and protect the top section of your spinal cord.

A neck X-ray also shows the nearby structures, including your:

• vocal cords
• tonsils
• adenoids
• trachea (windpipe)
• epiglottis (the flap of tissue that covers your windpipe when you swallow)

Dense structures like bones appear white on X-rays because very little radiation can pass through them to expose the film on the other side. Soft tissues are less dense. That means more radiation can pass through them. These structures will appear dark gray on the X-ray image.

Soft tissues include:

• blood vessels
• skin
• fat
• muscles

Read more: Vertebrae of the neck »

Your doctor may request a neck X-ray if you have a neck injury or pain, or persistent numbness, pain, or weakness in your arms.

The neck is particularly vulnerable to injury. This is especially true with falls, car accidents, and sports, where the muscles and ligaments of the neck are forced to move outside their normal range. If your neck is dislocated or fractured, your spinal cord may also be damaged. Neck injury caused by a sudden jerking of the head is commonly called whiplash.

Your doctor may check the X-ray image for the following:

• fractured or broken bones
• swelling in or near your trachea
• thinning of your neck bones due to osteoporosis
• bone tumors or cysts
• chronic wear on the disks and joints of your neck, which is called cervical spondylosis
• joints that are pushed out of their normal positions, which are called dislocations
• abnormal growths on the bones, which are called bone spurs
• spinal deformities
• swelling around the vocal cords, which is called croup
• inflammation of the epiglottis, which is called epiglottitis
• a foreign object that is lodged in your throat or airway
• enlarged tonsils and adenoids

X-rays are very safe and generally have no side effects or complications. The amount of radiation used in a single X-ray is quite small. However, if you have many X-rays, your risk of problems from radiation exposure increases. Tell your doctor if you’ve had multiple X-rays in the past. They can decide what your risk level is. Generally, body parts that aren’t being evaluated may be covered with a lead shield to reduce the risk of X-ray exposure to these areas.

Children are especially sensitive to radiation. They’ll be given a lead shield to cover their abdomens to protect their reproductive organs from the radiation.

Pregnant women also need to take precautions. If you’re pregnant and must have a neck X-ray, be sure to tell your doctor. You’ll be given a lead vest to cover your abdomen to keep radiation from harming your pregnancy.

A radiology technologist performs the X-ray. It takes place in a hospital radiology department or your doctor’s office. You’ll be asked to remove any clothing or jewelry on your upper body. Metal can interfere with the X-ray equipment.

The procedure is painless and generally takes 15 minutes or less. The technologist first has you lie flat on the X-ray table, and the X-ray machine then moves over your neck area. To keep the image from being blurry, you must stay very still and hold your breath for a few moments while the image is taken.

The radiology tech will likely ask you to lie in several different positions so the X-ray can be taken from multiple angles. You may also be asked to stand up so that X-ray images can be taken from an upright position.

The radiology technologist develops the X-rays and send them to your doctor within a few days.

Your doctor reviews the X-rays to look for signs of any damage or disease. They will use the results of the X-rays to make diagnostic and treatment decisions. Your doctor will discuss the X-ray results with you, as well as their treatment recommendations.

If your doctor orders a neck X-ray, it will probably be a painless process with no side effects. If you have any concerns about the procedure, be sure to discuss them with your doctor. They can answer your questions and tell you more about what to expect with your neck X-ray.

Last medically reviewed on June 26, 2017

How we reviewed this article:

Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

• X-ray exam: Neck. (2014).
  kidshealth.org/parent/system/medical/xray_neck.html
• Mayo Clinic Staff. (2015). Neck pain: Tests and diagnosis.
  mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/neck-pain/basics/tests-diagnosis/con-20028772
• Radiation dose in X-ray and CT exams. (2017).
  radiologyinfo.org/en/info.cfm?pg=safety-xray

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Medically reviewed by Shuvani Sanyal, M. D. — By Heather Ross — Updated on July 9, 2017

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  It’s easier to check your kidney health at home now more than ever. We’ve rounded up the best at-home kidney health test kits.

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X-ray: how is the procedure and what is it for?

X-ray examination is one of the main methods of instrumental diagnostics. During the procedure, a person is exposed to X-ray radiation, which is projected onto a specialized film or paper. According to the degree of darkening of the image, doctors assess the condition of the organ under study.

Depending on the requirements, the patient can perform the X-ray standing, sitting on a chair or lying down. The X-ray machine is controlled by a radiologist from the adjacent room, the whole procedure takes a few minutes.

When is an x-ray taken?

There are areas of medicine in which X-ray examination is used most often: these are injuries, examination of the mammary glands, lungs, etc. In addition, X-ray is cheaper compared to CT and MRI, therefore it is a priority method for diagnosing various organs.

X-rays are not recommended for pregnant women and children, only in emergency situations.

How to prepare for the examination?

In most cases, preparation for an X-ray is not required, but when examining the stomach, it is recommended to avoid eating foods that cause gas formation, drinking and smoking are contraindicated a few hours before the procedure.

Breast examination is recommended immediately after the end of menstruation. It is forbidden to use deodorant on the day of the examination.

How is X-ray done?

Before the procedure, the patient must:

• remove all jewelry, belt;
• remove metal objects from pockets;
• cover all non-examined parts of the body with special protective lead clothing.

For a chest X-ray, the spine will need to undress to the waist, for a bone X-ray it is possible to remain in clothing.

How often can an x-ray be taken?

X-ray is a certain dose of radiation load on the body, therefore, appropriate standards are provided for its implementation. On average, the total radiation dose per year should not exceed 1.4 m3v.

For comparison:

• Digital fluorogram is up to 0.06 m3v.
• Film fluorogram up to 1 m3v.
• Mammography up to 0.7 m3v.
• Tooth x-ray 0.35 m3v.

If you follow these rules, you can be sure that the received dose of radiation will not harm the body, and the doctor will be able to make the correct diagnosis.

What does an x-ray show?

With the help of x-rays it is possible to make an accurate diagnosis in a short time:

• with various injuries, fractures, a dark fracture will be visible on the picture;
• with inflammatory processes, the formation of stones in the internal organs, a lighter area is usually noticeable.

If a study is performed with a contrast agent, it is possible to determine the presence of a benign or malignant tumor by incomplete filling of the internal organs. When examining vessels with a contrast agent, gaps will be clearly visible.

The clarity of the image is directly affected by the quality of the used apparatus, film, reagents. Also, in many respects, the reliability of the result depends on unnecessary movements of the patient, which can spoil the result of the study.

To get a high-quality picture, it is necessary to follow all the doctor’s recommendations during the procedure.

X-ray and general information about it.

Many health problems cannot be identified without an accurate diagnosis or x-ray. For example, when we have a suspicion of pneumonia, we often hear from the doctor – “we need to do a fluorography.” What is an x-ray study? And why do doctors often recommend it?

Fluorography is the most popular type of x-ray.

What is an x-ray? Speaking in professional medical terms, x-ray is a detailed study of the internal structure of the body by shining it with x-rays and fixing the image on a special film or digital detector, i. e. x-rays penetrate through the tissues of the body without damaging them, form a picture of the state of human organs.

What does an x-ray show? On the pictures you can see (depending on the purpose of the device) various pathologies: inflammation, fractures, neoplasms (tumors), degenerative-dystrophic changes, destructive changes, developmental anomalies, etc. X-ray methods are used in the examination of the lungs, bones, soft tissues, internal organs (stomach, kidneys, etc.).

After an x-ray examination, the doctor can make an accurate diagnosis in a number of complex diseases.

The color of the image of the organs depends on their density. Different tissues pick up x-rays differently. Bones, muscles, lungs – will be displayed differently, the denser the tissue, the lighter it will be on the x-ray image.

How often can an x-ray be taken?

X-ray can be preventive and diagnostic. For the purpose of prevention, fluorography or radiography of the chest organs is done (at least 1 time per year), mammography (at least 1 time in two years). Diagnostic x-rays (including fluorography) are done if any diseases are suspected, it is prescribed by the attending physician. Exposure dose limits for patients (and, accordingly, the number of X-ray procedures) from diagnostic targets are not set (SanPiN 2.6.1.1192-03).

What is the allowable rate?

Standard prophylactic exposure during prophylactic medical X-ray examinations – 1 mSv per year. Limits of radiation doses for patients with diagnostic purposes are not set (if the doctor considers it necessary, then it is necessary).
When the accumulated dose of medical diagnostic exposure of a patient reaches 500 mSv (average dose per radiographic examination is approximately 0.001-0.5 mSv), measures should be taken to further limit his exposure if radiation procedures are not dictated by vital indications.

Is it necessary to remove radiation from the body after an X-ray examination?

After X-ray examinations, it is not necessary to remove radiation, since the radiation dose is negligible. Even after a scintigraphy, in which a radioactive drug is injected into a vein, it is only recommended to drink more fluids.

An important role is played by high-quality modern equipment and competent work with the apparatus of a specialist.

At Sanas Medical Center X-rays are made using the best Japanese equipment of the new generation Shimadzu SONIALVISION G4. This is the best in its class and the only multicomplex in the Far East, which, in addition to standard radiographic functions, has unique functions – tomosynthesis (layered examination) and SLOT radiography (panoramic image of the spine or lower extremities). Provides the highest image quality and detailed transmission of information at the lowest radiation dose.

SONIALVISION G4 is a universal remote-controlled X-ray diagnostic complex of the Premium class . The Multi-Purpose All-in-One System sets new standards for versatile imaging systems, increasing radiology room productivity over conventional systems.

2. The SONIALVISION G4 is recognized as the best in class universal x-ray unit . Independent analytical company KLAS presented Shimaszu Medical Systems with the “2015 Best in KLAS award” in the X-ray equipment segment.

3. The world’s first remote-controlled device with the function of tomosynthesis is an X-ray examination method that produces a layered image of the area under examination with a slice thickness of 0. 5 mm, which allows you to see the smallest pathological changes up to 1 mm. The diagnostic capabilities of this method are much wider than with conventional digital radiography.

   Tomosynthesis significantly expands the detection limits of smaller pathological changes than conventional radiography. 74% of focal-like shadows (focal-like shadows can be with tumors, metastases, tuberculosis and other pathological processes) are detected during tomosynthesis compared to 25% with standard radiography, which indicates a threefold increase in detection sensitivity during tomosynthesis. Digital radiography failed to detect metastatic changes in the lungs in 21.3%, which were determined during tomosynthesis. The informativeness of tomosynthesis in detecting peripheral lung cancer has been proven by scientists from the Research Center for Cancer Prevention and Screening (Tokyo, Chiba).

4. The low dose of radiation allows the use of tomosynthesis as a screening method, in contrast to computed tomography. In low-dose mode (20 slices), the dose does not exceed 0.001 mSv, which complies with radiation safety standards.

5. Another advantage of tomosynthesis over computed tomography is the ability to examine patients with metal implants without artifacts.

6. SLOT radiography – (aka panoramic radiography, slit radiography, axial radiography, teleroentgenogram). This method allows you to take a panoramic image of all parts of the spine with pelvic exposure or lower extremities with pelvic exposure in one image in one pass of the X-ray tube. The image is obtained with true anatomical dimensions, in contrast to the image stitching method. Slot radiography is effectively used to diagnose: scoliosis, shortening and deformity of the lower extremities, misalignment and rotation of the pelvic bones. This method is necessary for the work of orthopedists, manual therapists.