Definition:
A very small amount of radiation is used to produce an image of the structures of the chest (heart, lungs and bones) on film.
Your doctor uses the CXR to:
- look at the structures of the chest (bones, heart, lungs)
- evaluate placement of devices (pacemakers, defibrillators) or tubes placed during hospitalization for treatment and monitoring ( catheters, chest tubes)
- diagnose lung and cardiac diseases
What to expect:
- A CXR can be performed by Radiology at the bedside or in their department.
- You will remove all clothes and jewelry from the waist up. You will wear a hospital gown during the test.
- A very small amount of radiation is used to take images of the structures of the chest.
- Two x-rays will be taken: If you are able, you will be asked to stand very still with your chest against the cassette that contains the film. You will be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds to generate better images.
- You will be asked to do the same thing, but with your left side against the cassette.
The entire test takes no more than 10 to 15 minutes.
To prepare:
- No special preparation is necessary.
- Tell the technician if you may be pregnant.
