Chest Radiography

What is Chest Radiography?

Chest x-rays are the most commonly performed diagnostic x-ray examination. Approximately half of all x-rays obtained in medical institutions are chest x-rays. A chest x-ray is usually done for the evaluation of lungs, heart and chest wall. Pneumonia, heart failure, emphysema, lung cancer and other medical conditions can be diagnosed or suspected on a chest x-ray.

What are some common uses of the procedure?

Chest x-ray is typically performed as the first imaging test for symptoms of shortness of breath, a severe or persistent cough, chest pain, chest injury, or fever. Individuals with known or suspected medical conditions such as congestive heart failure or cancer may have chest x-rays to follow their response to treatment, or to determine changes that would require a change in their medical management.

Patient Preparation

There is no special preparation required for chest radiographs. Women should always inform their doctor or x-ray technologist if there is any possibility that they are pregnant. 

Exam Information

  • You may be asked to change into a gown before your examination. You will also be asked to remove jewelry, eyeglasses, and any articles of clothing that contain metal objects since these items may interfere with the x-rays.
  • Normally, two different views are taken of the chest area. A technologist will position the patient against a digital imaging receptor, and the technologist will step out of the room to make the exposure.  You will be asked to take deep breaths and hold them for the exposure. After each view is taken, the technologist will review the digital image on their computer monitor for proper positioning and technique.  Additional views may be requested to properly see all parts of the chest.
  • When the images are completed, a radiologist interprets the digital images using a specialized computer monitor. These digital images will be archived electronically. These images can also be transferred to CD or printed out as film.

History of Previous Exams

Have you had any prior studies of the area we are going to be imaging? It is important to give this information to SSR prior to your exam.  Be sure to include the facility name and approximate dates/years of exams. This helps us to locate the correct stud ies and have them available for our Radiologists so they can compare and note any changes that have occurred. If you have a copy of your images, please bring them with you to your appointment.

What will I experience during the procedure?

This is a painless procedure. The primary discomfort may come from the coldness of the recording plate. Individuals with arthritis or injuries to the chest wall, shoulders, or arms may have discomfort trying to maintain position for the chest x-ray. In these circumstances, the technologist will assist you in finding a position that still ensures diagnostic image quality.

Results

Results will be dictated by the Radiologist who reviwedyour exam and a formal written report will be sent to your referring physician within 2 to 3 days. Your physician will then discuss these results with you.

Schedule an Appointment!

Has your physician given you an order or referral for this procedure? Call SSR’s Scheduling Specialists at 360-493-4646 to schedule an appointment. Or, click here for additional information regarding scheduling an appointment.

More Information?

For more information about these and other procedures, visit RadiologyInfo.org.