Diagnostic Imaging Tests
Your provider may order diagnostic imaging tests to help diagnose an injury or illness; radiography, ultrasound and bone densitometry services are available at UHS.
Radiography uses x-rays to produce images of your body; these are captured on film or digitally. Frequent uses include chest x-rays, to evaluate the lungs, heart and chest wall; and bone x-rays, which can identify breaks, injuries and disease.
No special preparation is needed for the exam. The x-ray itself doesn’t hurt, although you may need to be positioned in a way that feels uncomfortable. If holding a position is difficult, tell the technologist. If you are, or think you may be, pregnant, it’s important to let the technologist know. Female patients are asked to review and sign a pregnancy statement before having x-rays.
Ultrasound, also called sonography, uses sound waves to examine your organs and tissues. Ultrasounds are usually painless and can be completed quickly; there is no radiation involved.
UHS performs obstetrical, gynecological and abdominal ultrasounds. Special preparations depend on the study you’re scheduled for; instructions are provided when you make an appointment.
Bone densitometry uses x-rays to measure the thickness of your bones. The test is often used to diagnose osteoporosis, a condition causing bones to become thin and brittle. Exams are fast and comfortable, with very low radiation exposure.
UHS uses technologically advanced equipment to ensure a comfortable, fast and safe exam. Patients spend only minutes reclining, fully clothed, on the densitometer. Radiation exposure is very low – just one-tenth of that received in a normal chest x-ray. If you are, or think you may be, pregnant, it’s important to let the technologist know. Female patients are asked to review and sign a pregnancy statement before their test.
