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Diagnostic Imaging - X-ray services at Elliot

Diagnostic Imaging

Central Scheduling Phone: 603-663-2180


Welcome to Radiology/X-Ray Services/Fluoroscopy


X Ray Radiology AccreditedAn X-ray uses a small amount of radiation to create images of your bones, joints and internal organs. X-rays are most often used to produce well-defined images that help your doctor prepare the best care possible for you.

Our Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS) – which is a digital, filmless and electronic information system for storing and displaying medical images – allows our board certified radiologists and providers to safely access diagnostic images and results.

Our board-certified radiologists from Southern NH Radiology Consultants and our registered and licensed technologists will work closely with you to make sure you have the best care possible. The radiologists will analyze your x-rays and computer-generated images then share their findings with your doctor, who in turn discusses them with you.

Your safety is one of our top priorities. We are committed to providing high-quality images to inform your treatment plan and minimize your exposure to radiation.


Make sure you tell the technologist:

  • If you are or think you may be pregnant
  • Have any metal in the part of your body being x-rayed. Ex. Hip or knee replacement
  • Wear an insulin pump or glucose sensor

Preparing for an X-ray

No preparation is needed for a routine X-ray. You may be asked to remove your jewelry and other metallic objects prior to the exam. You should wear comfortable clothing.


Arriving for Your Appointment

If your physician is from an Elliot practice your order will be in the Elliot computer system. If you see an Out of Network physician, we require a prescription order at the time of service.


What Happens During the X-ray?

You may be asked change into a hospital gown. You also may be asked to lie on a table, sit or stand. A lead apron may be draped over part of your body. For an X-ray of the chest or abdomen, you may be asked to take a deep breath and hold it for a few seconds.

At least two X-ray images will be taken during the exam. You may have to move your body before each new X-ray is taken. The exam usually takes 15 to 45 minutes.


What Happens After the X-ray?

You can usually return immediately to your normal activities and diet.

Your images will be read and dictated by our Radiologist and electronically sent to your physician. You may look at your results in your E-Chart if your physician is an Elliot physician. If your physician is out of network, please allow 24 hours for your physician to get back to you.


Are x-rays safe?

X-rays have many benefits that outweigh any small potential risk. Protocols are designed to use the lowest dose of radiation possible to obtain the needed medical information. Also, newer, faster machines like the ones at the Elliot require less radiation than was previously used. Talk with your doctor about the benefits and risks of your x-ray.


Why was I not given a lead apron?

We have stopped using lead shielding for patients for radiation-based imaging exams, including x-rays. This change is based on the best scientific evidence available and supported by multiple national medical organizations, including the American Association of Physicists in Medicine (AAPM) and the American College of Radiology (ACR).

We are committed to continually evaluating our practices and updating our technology in order to provide you with safe care. We encourage you to discuss additional questions or concerns with your provider or radiologist.


Locations

We provide a comprehensive range of imaging services at many locations as part of Elliot’s care teams throughout the hospital.




Fluoroscopic Exams

A fluoroscopic exam is an X-ray that makes it possible to see your internal organs in motion. It is often necessary to use a special substance (radiopaque) to make a part of your body show up more clearly on the x-ray. If you need the substance, you may get it as something to drink, through the vein or it may be inserted through your rectum.


Preparing for a Fluoroscopic Exam

Each fluoroscopic exam is different. You may need to:

  • stop eating or drinking, including water, after midnight the night before the exam
  • stop taking certain medicines several days before the exam
  • stop smoking several hours before the exam

If you are having a barium enema or an IVP (intravenous pyelogram) you may be required to do a colon cleansing prep prior to the exam.


Arriving for Your Appointment

Arrive at least 15 minutes before your appointment time to check in and complete any necessary paperwork.


What Happens During and After the Exam?

The exam will vary in length. You should plan for your entire visit to be at least 1½ hours. In some cases, it may take longer.

After the exam, you can usually return immediately to your normal activities and diet. You may need to wait 24 hours after your exam before you start taking certain medicines. Depending on what type of procedure you had, you may want to drink plenty of water after your exam.


Common Fluoroscopic Exams


Meet the Team


Learn more about the discontinuation of lead shielding