Digital X-ray in Onitsha.

Digital radiography producing clear images quickly, at a lower radiation dose than older film-based systems.

What X-ray is best at

X-ray remains the fastest and most accessible way to look at bone and the chest. It is the usual first test for suspected fractures and joint problems, and for assessing the lungs and heart outline.

Digital detectors replace film, so images appear within moments, can be adjusted without repeating the exposure, and are stored electronically for comparison later. In general, digital systems achieve this at a lower dose than the film systems they replaced.

Examinations available

• Chest X-ray (PA & lateral)
• Abdominal X-ray
• Skeletal X-ray
• Spine X-ray
• Extremity X-ray
• Skull X-ray
• Pelvic X-ray

How to prepare

Most X-rays need no preparation at all. You may be asked to change into a gown and to remove jewellery, glasses or anything metal from the area being imaged, since metal blocks X-rays and obscures the picture.

Tell the radiographer if you are pregnant or think you might be before the examination begins, so the request can be reviewed.

During the examination

• You are positioned against or on the detector, depending on the body part.
• You hold still — and for chest images, hold your breath for a moment.
• The exposure itself lasts a fraction of a second and you feel nothing.
• More than one view is often taken, for example front and side.
• The radiographer checks image quality before you leave.

Common questions