X-RAY WHAT IS AN X-RAY? X-ray is the oldest and most frequently used form of medical imaging. For nearly a century, diagnostic images have been created by passing small, highly controlled amounts of radiation through the human body, capturing the resulting shadows and reflections on a photographic plate. X-ray imaging is the fastest and easiest way for a physician to view and assess broken bones, cracked skulls and injured backbones. X-ray is useful in detecting more advanced forms of cancer in bones. Very early cancer findings require other methods. Radiologists have developed alternative imaging methods that do not rely on radiation, such as ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). However, because x-ray was the first imaging modality, many people (and medical imaging professionals) continue to use the term “radiology” to include all types of imaging. Strictly speaking, though, radiology refers to the use of x-rays. WHAT ARE SOME COMMON USES OF THE PROCEDURE? Probably the most common use of x-ray is to assist the physician in identifying and treating fractures. X-ray images of the skull, spine, joints, and extremities are performed every minute of every day in hospital emergency rooms, sports medicine centers, orthopedic clinics, and physician offices. Images of the injury can show even very fine hairline fractures or chips, while images produced after treatment ensure that a fracture has been properly aligned and stabilized for healing. Bone x-rays are an essential tool in orthopedic surgery, such as spinal repair, joint replacements, or fracture reductions. X-ray images can be used to diagnose and monitor the progression of degenerative diseases such as arthritis. They also play an important role in the detection and diagnosis of cancer, although usually CT (Cat Scan) or MRI is better at defining the extent and the nature of a suspected cancer. On regular x-rays severe osteoporosis is visible, but DEXA scans detect early loss of bone density. WHERE IS X-RAY OFFERED? Radiology Associates of Ocala offers x-ray at three convenient locations: Medical Imaging Center, Medical Imaging Center at Windsor Oaks and TimberRidge Imaging Center. WHAT TO EXPECT Once you arrive, you may be asked to change into a gown before your examination. You will also be asked to remove jewelry, eyeglasses and any metal objects that could obscure the images, since those show up on x-rays and may block the area of interest. Women should always inform their doctor or the technologist if there is any possibility that they are pregnant. QUICK LINKS: Arthritis: Treating Pain and Immobility Begin With a Correct Diagnosis RAO’s Board Certified musculoskeletal subspecializing radiologists have years of extra medical training and experience in the evaluation of arthritic conditions, enabling them to collaborate with referring clinicians to create an accurate diagnosis Read More → Imaging FAQs – An Overview of Common Diagnostic Procedures This article answers some of the most frequently-asked questions of five of the most common tests recommended and ordered by doctors for the purposes of diagnosis and/or image-guided medical treatment. Read More → PACS Radiology Associates of Ocala P.O. Box 6200 • Ocala, FL 34478-6200 Scheduling: 352-671-4300 - Fax: (352) 732-8010 For scheduling inquiries please email webappointments@raocala.com. For general inquiries please email info@raocala.com. © 2008 - 2020 Radiology Associates of Ocala | All Rights Reserved Accessibility | COVID Safety