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Diagnostic Radiology (X-Ray)
Diagnostic Radiology, more commonly known as x-ray, is a procedure in
which an invisible form of energy is used to take a picture of the inside
of your body. It is very similar to taking a picture of you with a camera.
The purpose of an x-ray is to:
- provide images of the inside of the body.
- provide valuable information in order to
diagnose, monitor or assist in the treatment of disease and injury.
An x-ray is a relatively safe and painless
procedure. A technologist will assist you throughout the x-ray procedure.
You will be positioned depending on what part of the body is being
x-rayed. An x-ray film will be placed lightly against the part of the body
to be x-rayed, or may be inserted into the x-ray machine. After you are
positioned and the film is in place, the technician will ask that you be
very still. For some x-rays you may be asked to hold your breath for a
couple of seconds. The technician will step behind a glass and take your
x-ray.
After the exam, the radiologist will provide your
physician with an interpretation of the results of your x-ray. Your
physician will then be able to make a diagnosis and explain the findings
to you.
Patient Preparation
There is no prep involved for a regular x-ray. Sometimes a liquid called
contrast medium is necessary to highlight certain structures. This is
given to you either in the form of a drink, through an IV, or by an enema.
If contrast is needed for your exam, you will be asked to avoid certain
foods and fluids. |
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FREQUENTLY ASKED
QUESTIONS |
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Featuring Gene Phillips, M.D.
Interventional Radiologist with Charleston Radiologists, PA
Medical Director, InvisiVein
Q. What are varicose veins?
A. Varicose veins are abnormal bulging veins below the skin surface that are unsightly and often painful. They frequently cause swelling and discomfort in the legs, especially during periods of prolonged standing. If left untreated, varicose veins can lead to permanent skin changes and sometimes ulceration.
Q. Are varicose veins only a cosmetic concern?
A. The appearance of varicose veins and spider veins (these are the smaller and more common variation of varicose veins) is the concern. However, varicose veins cause aching pain and discomfort. This condition may lead to serious problems if not treated.
Q. What new non-invasive techniques are available to treat varicose veins?
A. Surgery was the traditional treatment for varicose veins, but it’s invasive, moderately painful and has a slightly longer recovery period. Surgery requires the use of anesthesia, leaves a scar and a few incisions.
One of the newest non-invasive techniques in varicose vein removal is endovenous laser treatment (EVLT). The EVLT procedure is performed on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia, requires no incisions, and usually lasts less than an hour. An interventional radiologist, a doctor specially trained in performing minimally invasive treatments using imaging guidance, can perform EVLT.
Q. How does the EVLT procedure work?
A. With EVLT, laser energy minimizes the vein walls, shrinking them and closing the faulty vein so that the blood cannot flow through it. This eliminates the bulging of the vein at its source. After the treatment, the blood in the faulty veins will be diverted to the many normal veins in the leg.
The procedure leaves no visible scarring. There is minimal postoperative pain, and a quick recovery period gains immediate relief from symptoms. It is well documented that EVLT has a 98% initial success rate with excellent long-term results.
For more information on EVLT and varicose vein removal, visit InvisVein. |
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