X-Ray

Diagnostic X-rays with Expertise and Experience

Probably the most common diagnostic imaging tool available, an X-ray is a simple, painless procedure that is available throughout the Morton Plant Mease Health Care imaging network.

An X-ray is performed by focusing low levels of radiation into a beam that passes through the body, strikes a photographic film, and produces a picture. Extremity X-rays of the hand, arm, wrist, foot, ankle or head, for example, can be performed for a variety of reasons:

• To determine the cause of pain
• To evaluate a fractured or dislocated bone
• To evaluate an injury or damage caused by a condition such as arthritis or osteoporosis

Another Unique View: Fluoroscopy

Fluoroscopy is a procedure that combines X-ray imaging with a fluorescent screen, an image intensifier, and a TV-like camera and monitor to provide real time, “live” images. It is particularly helpful in diagnosing problems of the digestive tract, kidneys and gallbladder. A contrast agent such as barium is often used to highlight the area and enable the physician to see the movement of the intestines as the barium moves through them. Fluoroscopy is also used in cardiac catheterization to study the flow of blood through the coronary arteries and to help in the insertion of a catheter into a specific location inside the body.

Whether you’re coming to a Morton Plant Mease Health Care imaging center for a “simple” X-ray, or a sophisticated PET/CT scan, you can expect all members of our team to treat you with care, compassion and professionalism.