X-rays use radiation to create pictures of the inside of the body. An X-ray allows doctors to view internal structures without having to make incisions. 

What is an X-ray used for? 

X-rays are used to examine areas where the patient experiences pain or discomfort. X-rays can also be used to monitor the progression of a diagnosed disease, or to check how well a treatment is working.  

What type of radiation does an X-ray use? 

X-rays use ionizing radiation to produce images of the inside of the body. 

What is a digital X-ray? 

Digital X-rays are connected directly to a computer, so the image is captured without having to use film — similar to the differences between film and digital cameras.

Protocols are the details and plans that describe how a specific procedure will be performed. For X-rays, this usually refers to how many views are performed during the imaging. 

If you already have a referral, the type of protocol you need should be written directly on it. If you don’t have a referral, you can book one through Tripment Health. 

1 - 6+ Views – The number of views listed on your X-ray referral indicate how many different angles your provider wants to see, in order to get a clear view of a certain body part. It often helps to see things from more than one perspective to produce a reliable diagnosis. 

Abdomen Complete Acute Abdomen Series, 1 Chest View – These views are used to evaluate gas in the bowels. Typically, these include an AP supine view, a PA erect view, and PA erect chest radiograph.

Acromioclavicular Joint Bilat w/ or w/o Weights – The acromioclavicular joint is where the collarbone meets the clavicle. This is frequently ordered due to sports-related injury, to rule out a separation of these bones.   

Bone Age Studies – Bone age study X-rays are typically taken of the left hand, wrist, and fingers, then compared to X-ray images from a standard text book that show a range of what these bones and joints should look like at any given age. 

Bone Length Studies – These X-rays are typically taken of the knees, hips, and ankles, to assess discrepancies between length of the left versus right side of the body. 

Bone Survey – A bone survey is a series of X-rays that show a complete picture of your skeletal system. 

Contrast w/ KUB – During an X-ray with contrast, a gadolinium- or iodine-based dye is injected into your arm prior to the procedure for better visualization of your internal organs. KUB refers to the kidney, ureter, and bladder. 

Contrast w/o KUB – During an X-ray with contrast, a gadolinium- or iodine-based dye is injected into your arm prior to the procedure for better visualization of your internal organs. KUB refers to the kidney, ureter, and bladder. 

W/ KUB – KUB refers to the kidney, ureter, and bladder. 

W/o KUB – KUB refers to the kidney, ureter, and bladder. 

W/ small intestine – This series of X-rays will also include the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine.

How do I prepare for an X-ray? 

Your doctor will likely ask you to refrain from using deodorants, antiperspirants, lotions, creams, or perfumes before an X-ray, as particles from these substances can interfere with the image quality. Once you get to the imaging center, your doctor will ask you to remove all metal objects from your body, like jewelry, hairpins, or change from your pockets. For certain types of X-rays, like GI X-rays, you may be asked to fast or refrain from drinking for a few hours before your procedure.