214-556-0555
SCOLIOSIS X-RAY IMAGING
Our new 3D EOS X-ray digital machine contains the newest technology in X-ray imaging. As such, it emits “low dose” radiation that takes only 15 seconds to capture a full standing image. Also, this machine achieves 80-90% less radiation exposure than older technology according to the manufacturer.
X-ray Imaging
Our 3D X-ray digital system provides low dose, full-body, stereo-radiographic images of patients in a functional position. For instance, the system, described as a bi-planar device, provides two perpendicular fan beams of X-rays and proprietary detectors that travel vertically while scanning the patient. In a few seconds, the EOS exam produces two simultaneous frontal and lateral, low dose images or views of the whole body or an anatomical segment. Similarly, your physician may select a particular position for the exam including standing, bending, squatting, or sitting in a chair.
Why is Scoliosis X-ray Imaging Conducted?
An X-ray will display your bones and how they relate to each other. In addition, an X-ray helps your doctor determine if a patient has a fracture of the spine, an infection, or a tumor. For over 100 years, doctors have continued to use X-rays to check bone alignments and to see whether certain shadows appear out of alignment. With this tool, doctors can get clues about the health of the spine. If your doctor thinks your problem emanates from degeneration of the spine, X-rays can determine if the space between your vertebrae has decreased, if bone spurs exist or hypertrophy (enlargement) of the facet joints.
Conducting a Scoliosis X-ray
Having an X-ray taken is much like having your photograph taken. For instance, it is a quick and painless procedure. You will lie very still on a table or stand very still and hold certain positions while pictures are taken of your spine. Sometimes X-ray technicians will ask that you stand or sit in different positions. For example, an X-ray may be taken while you bend forward (flexion), and another while you straighten your spine (extension). For example, doctors refer to this as a “flexion-extension” view of the spine. Moreover, these X-rays are compared to see if there is extra movement between the vertebrae, a condition called segmental instability.
For patients in pain
Our X-ray system will take the X-ray really fast, within 15 seconds. Also, the system can take 3D weight-bearing images that provide your physician with views of your spine or limb anatomy that are not available with 2D X-rays but become critical for diagnosing and treating complex orthopedic and spine conditions.
What are the limitations of Scoliosis X-ray Imaging?
X-rays do not show the soft tissues-nerves, discs, and ligaments. Today, many tests can show the soft tissues much clearer, so doctors do not always have to rely on X-rays. However, X-rays provide a good starting point in evaluating the spine.
What are the risks?
Our X-ray machine provides reduced radiation exposure to our patients. For example, the EOS X-ray system delivers 50% to 85%less radiation than traditional digital X-ray systems and 95% less dose than computed tomography (CT) scans. For patients that need to undergo frequent X-rays to monitor the progress of their condition, the system of choice is the EOS system of choice, delivering fast, safe, and high-quality images.
The vast majority of patients who get X-rays will never get enough radiation to worry about cancer. In addition, only patients who get hundreds of X-rays over many years need to worry about this risk. Furthermore, doctors will protect Children and young adults from radiation exposure to the testicles and ovaries. This is because the radiation may damage sperm and eggs. During X-rays, It is simple to protect these areas by shielding them with a lead apron or lead blanket.
If you or a loved one suffers from spinal pain, you owe it to yourself to call Southwest Scoliosis and Spine Institute at 214-556-0555 to make an appointment.