X-ray Examination

An X-ray image is produced when a small amount of radiation is passed through a body part to create an image. The image is produced as a result of the ways in which different internal structures absorb the radiation.

X-rays are most often performed to detect problems in the bones, such as fractures or evidence of arthritis in the joints, and in the chest, such as pneumonia.

HOW DO I PREPARE FOR MY EXAM?

• You will be asked to remove any metal objects, such as jewelry, watches, hair clips, pins, and clothes with metal buttons, zippers, or snaps.
• Women between the ages of 11-55 will be asked about the possibility of pregnancy.
• If the X-rays are going to be directed towards the pelvic area, a pregnancy consent form will be filled out to verify that there is no chance of pregnancy. If there is a chance of pregnancy for these exams, please take a pregnancy test before you arrive. You could be asked to defer your exam if there is a question about your status.
• Please let us know if you have any mobility limitations when booking your exam. We do not have patient lifts at any of our locations, so, unfortunately, you will need to visit a hospital if you need one.
• If you are coming in for follow-up scoliosis imaging that was previously done in hospital, please return to that site to get the most accurate measurements.
• Please arrive 15 minutes before your appointment to allow enough time to check in with reception.
• Bring photo identification and your provincial health card, plus your passport if you are coming in for immigration exams.
• Wear comfortable clothes with no metal around the area to be imaged.
• You may be asked to change into a gown. If you require assistance changing or moving, please bring someone to help you, if possible.
• Please do not bring children who require supervision; they cannot be in the room while radiation is being applied.

WHAT HAPPENS DURING MY EXAM?

• Depending on the area being examined, you may be asked to change into a gown and to remove any metal objects, such as jewelry, watches, hair clips, pins, and clothes with metal buttons, zippers, or snaps. For some exams, hair is required to be up and away from the area to be imaged.
• Women between the ages of 11-55 will be asked about the possibility of pregnancy.
• We continue to use lead shielding whenever possible, unless it obscures the area of interest.
• The technologist will arrange you in several different positions to obtain the correct X-ray images. These are done standing and lying down, depending on the exam. You may also be given breathing instructions.
• You will be reminded to remain very still while the X-ray is being taken.
• Once the technologist has confirmed that the necessary number of images has been taken and has determined they are of good quality, you will be free to leave.
• Please note: There is a cost for immigration X-rays and those required for employment purposes.

WHEN WILL I GET MY RESULTS?

We do our best to have our radiologists interpret the information and forward the results to your doctor by the next business day.

HOW MUCH WILL IT COST?

This exam is covered under your Alberta and Saskatchewan Health Care Plans.