Radiography (X-Ray)

X-Ray is a painless diagnostic exam that uses small doses of ionizing radiation to generate radiographic images of your internal anatomy.  These images are reviewed by our radiologists who then deliver the report to your referring physician- so that they might proceed with proper care and treatment.  There are many different ways x-ray can be used.

Fluoroscopy is mainly performed to view movement of tissue or a contrast agent, or to guide a medical intervention, such as angioplasty, pacemaker insertion, or joint repair/replacement.  Fluoroscopy can be used to examine the digestive system using a substance with is opaque to X-Rays (usually barium sulfate or gastrografin), which is introduced into the digestive system either by swallowing, or as an enema.  Upper gastrointestinal tract radiography, also known as an upper GI, is an x-ray of the pharynx, esophagus, stomach, and first part of the small intestine (or duodenum) using fluoroscopy and a contrast agent.  Lower GI tract radiography, also called a lower GI tract barium enema examines the large intestine, also known as the colon.  This includes the right or ascending colon, the transverse colon, the left of descending colon, sigmoid colon and the rectum.  The appendix and a portion of the distal small intestine may also be included

Hysterosalpingiography is an X-Ray examination of a woman’s uterus and fallopian tubes that uses fluoroscopy and a contrast material.  When the uterus and fallopian tubes are filled with a water-soluble contrast material, the radiologist is able to view and assess the anatomy and function.  This type of x-ray is most often used to examine women who have difficulty becoming pregnant by allowing the radiologist to evaluate the shape and structure of the uterus, the openness of the fallopian tubes and any scarring within the peritoneal cavity.

Bone x-ray makes images of any bone in the body, including the hand, wrist, arm, foot, ankle, knee, leg or spine.

Chest x-ray is performed to evaluate the lungs, heart and chest wall.  It is usually the first imaging test to be run to diagnose an individual whose symptoms include shortness of breath, a bad or persistent cough, chest pain/injury, and fever.  Other conditions that physicians might employ x-ray to treat may include pneumonia, heart failure and other heart problems, emphysema, lung cancer, and a variety of other medical conditions.

Further information about x-ray, including ways to prepare for the examination, can be obtained by calling Sheri Burns, NLMC Director of Radiology at 318-254-2461 or by logging on to http://www.radiologyinfo.org .

If you are a physician, in need of scheduling a patient, please call Central Scheduling at 318-254-2791.