Diagnostic x-ray is often a first exam ordered by a doctor. It can visualize
many different parts of the body, allowing more accurate testing and diagnosis.
Basic x-rays use a small amount of radiation to view the chest, abdomen,
spine, skull, arms, or legs. More specialized x-rays use a contrast material,
which is taken orally or injected, to better define the spine, kidneys,
stomach, colon, or bladder.
Please register in Admitting/Registration 15-20 minutes prior to your Radiology
appointment. Patients can save time and pre-register by calling (309)
836-1753 between 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Most x-ray examinations require no preparation.
Always notify the technologist if you are pregnant.
The following exams require you to have nothing by mouth after midnight
prior to the exam: upper gastrointestinal (UGI), barium swallow, and esophagus;
voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG) is 2 hours prior.
Certain examinations such as colon, and limited intravenouspyelogram (IVP),
require a preparation kit to be picked up in the Radiology Department,
preferably between the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday-Friday.
The x-ray equipment in the MDH Radiology features the best in imaging technology.
The Carestream Directview Digital Radiography (DR) 7500 offers improved
image quality, versatility and speed, and reduces patient exposure to
radiation for general radiography exams. An auto-positioning feature enables
the equipment to automatically move into position when a technologist
selects a preprogrammed exam. Digital images are viewed using the Picture
Archive Communication System (PACS) and Digital Radiography (DR) to distribute
imaging information and provide a wide range of radiology services.
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