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Overview
X-rays use a small amount of radiation to create images of bones, organs and other internal structures.
An X-ray is a common medical test that helps doctors see inside your body. They are often used to check for broken bones, lung or abdominal conditions, joint injuries, foreign objects and other health concerns.
Some X-ray exams may use a contrast agent, such as iodine or barium, to help highlight certain areas of the body. If this is needed, your care team will explain what to expect.
The Ottawa Hospital follows the ALARA principle—“As Low As Reasonably Achievable”—to keep radiation exposure to a minimum while still getting the images needed for diagnosis. Most people receive more radiation from natural sources in daily life than from a single X-ray.
What an X-ray feels like
X-ray exams are painless.
You might feel a bit uncomfortable because the room can be cool or the table may be firm. Holding certain positions during the exam may also be uncomfortable, especially if you’re injured.
Our technologists are trained to help you find a position that’s as comfortable as possible while still getting the images your doctor needs.
Safety information
X-rays use a small amount of radiation to create images. There’s no strong evidence that this low level of exposure causes harm, but The Ottawa Hospital takes a cautious approach and treats all radiation as something that could carry a small risk.
To keep you safe, we follow the ALARA principle—“As Low As Reasonably Achievable.” This means we use the lowest amount of radiation possible while still getting clear images.
The amount of radiation depends on the type of exam and the part of the body being scanned. Some areas are more sensitive than others.
For certain exams, you may be asked to wear a lead apron or shield. This helps protect parts of your body that aren’t being imaged.
Radiation in everyday life
People are naturally exposed to radiation that comes from the earth in rocks and soil and from outer space, in the form of cosmic rays. A small amount of radioactive material even exists naturally in our bodies.
Every year, each person is exposed to this natural radiation and radiation from a variety of other sources, including household smoke detectors, fertilizers and certain foods. Air travel also increases exposure to cosmic radiation due to higher altitudes and less atmospheric shielding.
Naturally occurring background radiation and modern activities such as flying in an airplane all contribute to lifetime exposure, which is only slightly increased by medical imaging.
Getting your results
Once your images are ready, a radiologist (a doctor who specializes in reading medical scans) will review them and write a report.
This report is sent to your medical team to help guide your care.
Sometimes, the Medical Imaging department may contact you directly—especially if there’s a concern or if part of the exam needs to be repeated or completed.
If you haven’t received your results within 30 days, contact your health care provider or the Medical Imaging department to follow up.
Exams performed by X-rays at The Ottawa Hospital
X-rays are used for many types of exams. These include common tests like chest, abdominal and joint X-rays, as well as more specialized procedures.
Some exams use a type of X-ray machine called fluoroscopy, which shows real-time images. This allows doctors to see movement inside the body, such as how contrast flows through organs or how joints move. Fluoroscopy uses low doses of radiation and can also create short video clips to help with diagnosis.
Special procedures using X-rays are always done by a radiologist or another trained physician. They are supported by medical radiation technologists, and sometimes nurses or other staff, depending on the exam.