What is Radiology?
Plain radiography, commonly known as radiology, involves imaging body organs using X-rays. X-rays are absorbed by certain body tissues while passing through others. This difference in absorption creates the radiographic image. Radiographs are often used to examine bones, joint spaces, and certain lesions. The radiation dose from plain radiography is acceptable and generally harmless, except in specific cases such as pregnancy.
Types of Radiology
Colon Transit Time (CTT) Imaging
This imaging process shows how the large intestine functions. Patients receive prepared capsules containing a standard amount of beads from the radiology department. Over five days, they consume the capsules as instructed. On the sixth day, the patient returns for imaging. The number of beads remaining in the large intestine helps assess its health and functionality.
Preparation instructions for this type of radiography can be found on the Radiology Preparation page.
Intravenous Pyelogram (IVP)
An IVP is an imaging technique of the kidneys using a contrast agent to show the shape and function of the kidneys and ureters. It’s typically requested for patients with kidney issues like stones, congenital anomalies, or ureteral narrowing. The contrast agent is injected, and images are taken at standard intervals to assess kidney function over time.
Preparation instructions for this type of radiography can be found on the Radiology Preparation page.
Barium Swallow (Ba. Swallow)
Barium swallow radiography involves imaging the esophagus using a contrast agent. A barium sulfate powder is mixed with water to create a yogurt-like consistency. During imaging, the patient fills their mouth with the solution and swallows it at the appropriate time. Barium absorbs X-rays, making the esophagus visible from the throat to the stomach. This test is used for patients with swallowing difficulties.
Contraindications:
Patients with potential gastrointestinal tract perforations due to trauma, surgery, or disease should not ingest barium powder. In such cases, esophageal imaging is performed using liquid contrast agents and fluoroscopy.
Preparation instructions for this type of radiography can be found on the Radiology Preparation page.
Hysterosalpingography (HSG)
HSG is an imaging technique of the uterus and fallopian tubes using a contrast agent. It’s commonly performed to assess uterine and tubal status in infertility evaluations or pre-pregnancy checkups, including IVF procedures.
The procedure is conducted between days 3 and 12 of the menstrual cycle. After administering local anesthesia, a radiology technician inserts a speculum into the vagina, injects the contrast agent into the uterus, and takes radiographs. The speculum is a plastic device also used in gynecological exams. Notably, the contrast agent is administered without using a needle.