X-Ray Imaging

X-rays are the oldest and most commonly used medical imaging test, providing detailed views of your internal structures. At Banner Health, we're committed to bone health, and our advanced digital X-ray technology delivers clear, fast images to support accurate diagnosis and monitoring.

Understanding X-rays

What is an X-Ray?

An X-ray is a type of radiation that passes through your body to create images of bones and other tissues. This non-invasive procedure uses electromagnetic waves to capture detailed images on flat panel detectors.

Types of X-rays

There are various X-ray procedures, each designed to examine specific body parts. Common types include:

• Chest X-rays: Image the heart, lungs, and blood vessels.
• Bone X-rays: Evaluate fractures, arthritis, and bone density.
• Dental X-rays: Examine teeth and jawbones. 

Contrast material for enhanced imaging

In some cases, a contrast agent (contrast material) might be used to improve image clarity. This substance is injected into your bloodstream or swallowed to highlight specific areas, such as blood vessels or soft tissues.

The X-ray procedure

How does an X-ray work?

During an X-ray, you'll stand or lie down while the X-ray machine positions itself around the body part being examined. The amount of radiation exposure is minimal and comparable to natural background radiation. 

When is an X-ray Used?

While X-ray play an important role in diagnosing broken bones, they can also be used for a number of other reasons such as:

• To view, monitor or diagnose joint injuries and infections, arthritis, artery blockages or abdominal pain
• To detect and diagnose cancer, although CT scans or an MRI are more commonly used to define the extent and the nature of a suspected cancer
• A chest X-ray produces images of the heart, lungs, and ribs and can be used to identify broken ribs, heart problems, or pneumonia.

How to Prepare for an X-Ray

While there is no need to prepare for an imaging X-ray, you will need to remove any jewelry and metal objects before the exam begins. Make sure to let your doctor or the X-ray technologist know if you are pregnant as well.

What to Expect from an X-Ray

During an X-ray exam, you can expect the imaging test to take 30 minutes or less. Depending on the body part being looked at, you may have you lie on an exam table and stay in a position to take an image of the specific area. When the technologist is ready to take the image, they will step behind a barrier and have you stay still.

Associated Risks

X-ray imaging is painless, but you may feel uncomfortable if needing to get a specific image from an angle. X-rays, particularly digital X-ray, expose only a low dose of radiation so there are no known associated risks or health problems.

Where to Get an X-ray Near Me

X-rays can be performed at most Banner Health facilities, including our convenient Banner Imaging locations, ensuring you'll receive a timely X-ray so you can get the best care possible, quickly.

The Banner Health team is here to help you before, during and after your X-ray imaging tests. Let us know if you have any questions about X-ray imaging.