MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Bone X-ray

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Bone X-ray

Contents of this page:
Illustrations Alternative names Definition How the test is performed How to prepare for the test	How the test will feel Why the test is performed What abnormal results mean What the risks are

Illustrations

Skeleton

Skeletal spine

Osteogenic sarcoma - X-ray

Alternative names Return to top

X-ray - bone(s)

Definition Return to top

An X-ray used to detect fractures, tumors, or degenerative conditions of the bone.

How the test is performed Return to top

The test is performed in a hospital radiology department or in the health care provider's office by an X-ray technician. You are asked to position the bone to be X-rayed on the table. The pictures are then taken, repositioning the bone for different views.

How to prepare for the test Return to top

Inform the health care provider if you are pregnant. You must remove all jewelry.

For infants and children:
The preparation you can provide for this test depends on your child's age and previous experiences. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics:

infant test or procedure preparation (birth to 1 year)
toddler test or procedure preparation (1 to 3 years)
preschooler test or procedure preparation (3 to 6 years)
schoolage test or procedure preparation (6 to 12 years)
adolescent test or procedure preparation (12 to 18 years)

How the test will feel Return to top

The X-rays themselves are painless; however, repositioning the bone may be uncomfortable.

Why the test is performed Return to top

A bone X-ray is used to detect fractures, tumors, or degenerative conditions of the bone.

What abnormal results mean Return to top

Abnormal findings include fractures, bone tumors, degenerative bone conditions, and osteomyelitis (inflammation of the bone caused by an infection).

Additional conditions under which the test may be performed:

What the risks are Return to top

There is low radiation exposure. X-rays are monitored and regulated to provide the minimum amount of radiation exposure needed to produce the image. Most experts feel that the risk is low compared with the benefits.

Pregnant women and children are more sensitive to the risks of the X-ray. A protective shield may be worn over areas not being scanned.

Update Date: 10/17/2003

Updated by: Jeffrey Brown, M.D., Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network

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