Definition:
A hand x-ray is a medical image of one or both hands.
Alternative Names:
X-ray - hand
How the test is performed:
X-rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation like light, but of higher energy. They can pass through the body to form an image on film. Structures that are dense (such as bone) will appear white, air will be black, and other structures will be shades of gray. A hand x-ray is taken in a hospital radiology department or your health care provider's office by an x-ray technician. You will be asked to place your hand on the x-ray table, and keep it very still as the picture is being taken. You may need to change the position of your hand, so additional images can be taken.
How to prepare for the test:
Inform the health care provider if you are pregnant. Remove all jewelry.
How the test will feel:
Generally, there is little or no discomfort associated with x-rays.
Why the test is performed:
Hand x-ray is used to detect fractures, tumors, or degenerative conditions of the hand. Hand x-rays may also be performed to assist in determining the "bone age" of a child in order to determine if metabolic or nutritional disorders are interfering with proper growth.
References:
Mettler FA. Skeletal system. In: Mettler FA, Jr, ed. Essentials of Radiology. 2nd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2005:chap 8. Rogers LF, Talianovic MS, Boles CA. Skeletal trauma. In: Grainger RC, Allison D, Adam, Dixon AK, eds. Diagnostic Radiology: A Textbook of Medical Imaging. 4th ed. New York, NY: Churchill Livingstone; 2001:chap 46.
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