During the late 1800's the revolutionary discovery of x-ray gave birth to the field of medical imaging. For the first time, we had the ability to see inside the human body without a surgical intervention. Today, the science of x-ray forms the foundation for many of our other imaging technologies like CT and mammography. It has given us diagnostic tools that have literally changed the face of medicine. In its simplest terms, x-ray, now more widely known as radiography, is a tool for viewing internal structures.

EPIC Imaging provides a full spectrum of general radiography services from the routine to those needing urgent attention. We employ only licensed x-ray personnel and all of EPIC's general radiography equipment is routinely inspected by a physicist to ensure the highest government safety standards are met or exceeded. We continually upgrade equipment as technology improves.

Frequently, an x-ray will reveal something which requires a more in-depth examination using a different technology like an MRI or CT scan. One great advantage for our patients is the fact that EPIC has all major diagnostic imaging equipment at each center. We can immediately move you to a more appropriate technology if required.

General radiography, or x-ray, uses a controlled beam of energy that is passed through the body. Because the bones, organs and tissues within our bodies are composed of differing densities, the x-ray beams move through them differently. Bones for instance will absorb more of the beam than an organ or soft tissue making them appear white or gray on x-ray image while the tissue appears darker.

After passing through the body, the x-ray beams are captured on either film or a computerized receptor. The most subtle internal differences can be seen with remarkable detail in varying degrees of black and white.

Over the years, general radiography has continued to see technological advancement mostly notable in the area of radiation exposure. Although the science still uses radiation, the amount for most exams is now generally less than you would receive over the course of the year from the sun. There is no doubt the benefits of radiography in healthcare far outweigh the risks.

At EPIC, general radiography is used as a fast and simple way to document everything from broken bones to injured backs. It allows us to pinpoint pneumonia and to help your sports medicine physician evaluate the health of your aching joints. And used in combination with digital fluoroscopy general radiography provides us with the means to capture real time views of our internal organs as they function.

For more information on how to prepare for an x-ray exam click here.