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X-ray
X-ray

Extremity X-ray
Definition:
An X-ray of the extremities (hand, wrist, arm, foot, knee, ankle, leg). X-rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation (like light); they are of higher energy, however, and can penetrate the body to form an image on film. Structures that are dense (such as bone) will appear white, air will be black, and other structures will be shades of gray (See also bone X-ray).

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

Inform the health care provider if you are pregnant. Remove all jewelry.

Infants and children:
The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experience, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics as they correspond to your child's age:

How the test will feel:
There is no discomfort (except possibly from positioning the area being X-rayed).
Why the test is performed:
Extremity X-ray is used to detect fractures, tumors, or degenerative conditions of the extremity.
Normal Values:
The X-ray shows normal structures for the age of the patient.
What abnormal results mean:

Abnormal results include fractures, dislocations, 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:
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.
Special considerations:
Not applicable.
Review Date: 2/2/2001
Reviewed By: Ann M. Johnson, M.D., Department of Radiology, New York Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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