X-ray ( Diagnostic): is the basic field from which radiology developed and still is the most commonly employed technique in radiology. X-rays can be either still images (x-ray films) or movies (radioscopy).

TYPES OF DIAGNOSTIC X-RAY EXAMS

Radiographic examination of the osteoarticular system:

Osteoarticulary radiography represents the basic technique for the examination of bones and joints.

X-ray tests that require special preparation :

GASTROINTESTINAL SERIES

HYSTEROSALPINGOGRAM

INTRAVENOUS UROGRAM

GASTROINTESTINAL SERIES is an x-ray exam of the esophagus, stomach, and sometimes of the small intestine that requires you to drink a liquid called barium.

Your preparation: It is very important that you do not drink or eat anything from midnight before your exam until your examination in the morning.

Consumption of any other medication: If is an important medication please consult your doctor first.

How is the exam performed ?

The doctor will ask you to swallow a barium drink .The barium will fill your stomach, which then can be seen on a special x-ray T.V monitor. You will be asked to change your position while holding your breath to take spot films. The examination takes about 30-40 minutes.

Your results will be ready after the doctor analyzes the x-ray films and writes the report. Then he will discuss it with you and your physician.

Hysterosalpingogram is an x-ray examination of the uterus and the fallopian tubes by using a contrast medium.

Your preparation :This exam must be performed 7-10 days after the first day of your last menstrual period .

You will be placed in the same position as in a gynecological examination. The radiologist will clean off the area with a sterile iodine solution to prevent infection and insert a speculum. Then the radiologist will place a small catheter into the cervical canal and inject the x-ray contrast .After this the doctor will watch the images on a special x-ray T.V monitor and take spot films.

During the injection of the x-ray contrast you may have some cramping .The exam will take about 30-40 minutes.

After the examination:For 24 hours to not douche, use tampons or have intercourse .For minor cramps you can take Panadol (paracetamol) .It is normal for same light bleeding to occur. If you experience a heavy bleeding or fever you must call your doctor immediately.

You will have the results after the radiologist analyzes the x-ray and writes the report.

Intravenous Pyelogram is a special x-ray examination of the urinary system.

Your preparation:On the day before the exam you must eat a light meal. Drink as much clear fluid as you can. Start eating any solid food after 8 pm. On the day of the exam do not eat solid food.

If you have a history of allergy you must tell your doctor.

How is it performed? First the radiographer will take an x-ray film to see if you have a good preparation (if your bowel is empty). Then the doctor gives you a special contrast medium through the intravenous line in your arm. After the injection, the radiologist will take a number of x-ray films .When your bladder fills with contrast, you will be asked to  urinate. Then , the radiographer will take the last x-ray film .

The examination takes about one hour .Sometimes it is necessary to take delayed films. In some cases, the patient can feel warmth ?r coolness with the injection.

The results will be ready after the doctor analyzes the x-ray films and writes the report.