Diagnostic Radiology, or X-ray, is the Oldest and Most Frequently Used Form of Medical Imaging
It is a fast, painless method for a doctor to determine if you have broken bones, joint or spine injuries. X-rays are an important way to rule out certain problems and/or to prevent illnesses from becoming worse. X-rays can also be used with other radiology procedures.

What Happens When I Get an X-ray?
An X-ray involves exposing a specific body part to a small amount of radiation to produce an image of the internal bones and organs. They can be still images or movie-like, known as fluoroscopy. As X-rays penetrate the body they are absorbed in varying amounts and show different features of the body in various shades of gray. Sometimes a contrast agent may be needed to increase the visibility of certain organs and/or body parts.

We also provide 24-hour/day support for the MRMC Emergency Department. Some of the X-ray exams performed at MRMC include:

• Diagnostic X-rays capture the following:
• Arthrogram (Detects injury or disease in a joint, most commonly a knee or shoulder)
• Hysterosalpingogram (An X-ray of the uterus and fallopian tubes)
• IVP (Images of the kidneys, ureter and bladder are taken)
• Lower GI Series/ Barium Enema (The colon and rectum are imaged during this test)
• Myelogram (An X-ray study of the spine)
• Upper GI Series/Barium Swallow (Provides information about the pharynx, esophagus, stomach and part of the small intestine)

How do I Prepare for an X-ray?

• Please bring all medications you are currently taking in their original containers with you to your X-ray.
• Patient preparation for X-ray procedures is dependent upon the specific procedure ordered by your doctor.
• Please contact your doctor’s office before your procedure for specific instructions in addition to the following:

Lower GI/Barium Enema

• Patient needs to come to Radiology at their scheduled location at least two days before their appointment to pick up a prep kit if one was not provided by the ordering doctor.
• Do not have anything to eat or drink after midnight before their procedure.

IVP

• Patient needs to come by Radiology in the Pavilion at least two days before the procedure to pick up a prep kit if not provided by the ordering doctor.

Myelogram

• Because certain medications (ex – blood thinners) will need to be discontinued for up to a week before this exam, please discuss ANY medications you are taking with your doctor.
• On the day of the exam, you may have a light breakfast and then clear liquids only before the exam.
• Please arrive at the hospital one hour before your scheduled exam.
• Please make plans to have someone drive you home from the hospital.

On the Florence campus, Diagnostic Radiology Services are performed at three locations

• McLeod Tower, First Floor, 555 East Cheves Street, Florence
• McLeod Pavilion, First Floor, 801 East Cheves Street, Florence
• McLeod Plaza, First Floor, 800 East Cheves Street, Florence