back to Diagnostic Radiology

Chest X-ray

The chest X-ray is the most common medical imaging examination.  An image of your heart and lungs is produced and recorded on a special film or computer.  This examination is used to reveal conditions such as pneumonia, congestive heart failure, tuberculosis, tumors or other lung and heart problems.  It is also widely used as part of a routine physical examination.

Preparation:  There is no special preparation for this examination.

Procedure:  You will be asked to remove all clothing to your waist and asked to put on a hospital gown.  If you are wearing a necklace you will be asked to remove this also.  You will be asked to stand facing a chest board that holds the X-ray film.  You will be positioned so that your arms and shoulders are rolled forward and asked to take in a deep breath and hold it.  You will then be turned so that your side is next to the board and asked to raise both arms above your head and again, to hold in a deep breath.  Occasionally, other views may be requested.  This procedure takes only a few minutes. You will be asked to wait while the technologist develops the film.  Your film will be read by a radiologist, who will send a report of his findings to your physician, who will discuss these results with you.