X-Ray & Fluoroscopy

X-Ray & Fluoroscopy at Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital–Needham

X-rays are the oldest and most commonly used type of diagnostic imaging. Providers use them to diagnose a wide variety of health conditions. We also use X-rays to determine how well you’re responding to treatment.

Our imaging specialists at Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital–Needham use the most advanced X-ray equipment to capture pictures that can support your health care needs. Our team conducts two types of X-ray scans:

• Still images
• Real-time images (fluoroscopy)

Why BID Needham?

At BID Needham, our priority is getting you the care you need as quickly — and as safely — as possible. Our department has two, state-of-the-art digital radiography machines that process images in less than 10 seconds. As a result, your exam takes less time, and you’re exposed to less radiation.

How Do X-Rays and Fluoroscopy Differ?

X-ray exams use small beams of radiation to create pictures of the structures inside your body. Your bones and any metal implants look white in the images. Fat and muscle appear gray, and the air in your lungs looks black.

A fluoroscopy is like an X-ray movie. It uses the same X-ray beams and passes them continuously through your body. The images are displayed on a screen to show the real-time motion of structures inside your body.

When Might You Need an X-Ray or Fluoroscopy?

Your provider may recommend an X-ray to evaluate an injury to your bone or to assess healing. X-rays also can identify sinus and lung infections, intestinal blockages, kidney stones or foreign objects in your body.

Our imaging specialists use fluoroscopy to diagnose a wide variety of conditions. The exam also can provide guidance during procedures like cardiac catheterization and orthopedic surgery.  

X-ray and fluoroscopy are useful exams for these and other types of medical care:

• Digestive Care
• Heart & Vascular
• Orthopedics
• Spine Care
• Special, minor procedures
• Urology

 Our department can conduct exams for inpatients around the clock 365 days a year. We perform outpatient exams daily from 7:00 am to 9:00 pm.

What Can You Expect from an X-Ray or Fluoroscopy?

You can have an X-ray or fluoroscopy for many reasons. Our staff will give you specific instructions on how to prepare for your exam. For some exams, you may be given contrast material to help our specialists see specific structures in your body.

Before the exam, please tell us if you are or think you may be pregnant.

What Happens During and After an X-Ray or Fluoroscopy?

During your X-ray, you’ll be asked to sit, stand or lie down. Our imaging specialists will cover parts of your body not being imaged with a lead apron. This protects those areas from being exposed to radiation. Typically, there is no special care needed after an X-ray.

Some fluoroscopy exams require contrast material. You may receive it as an injection, a liquid to drink or an enema. During the test, you’ll be asked to lie still on a table. You may need to briefly hold your breath a few times during the test. The type of fluoroscopy study you have will determine your after care. For example, a cardiac catheterization requires several hours of recovery.

How Will You Get Your Images?

Your images will be added to your electronic medical record after our imaging specialist has reviewed them. We will share these images with the physician who ordered your test.