General X-ray often is ordered for a quick and easy evaluation. X-ray technology requires a small amount of radiation to create images of the area being examined. Its ability to penetrate tissues and bones varies according to the composition and mass of the structure in the body.  

FAQs

An X-ray is non-invasive and the most common type of medical imaging. X-rays use a small amount of radiation to create images of the body’s internal structures. Radiation dose is determined by the type of exam, the body area being imaged and the physical characteristics of the patient.

Radiation exposure from an X-ray typically is very low and the benefit from the imaging is substantial. The amount of radiation you are exposed to during an X-ray depends on the tissue or organ being examined. If you are pregnant or suspect you may be pregnant, tell your technologist right away to determine next steps as X-rays can be harmful to unborn babies.

No. General X-ray is available on a walk-in basis. Check each office for X-ray hours of operation as they vary slightly among our locations. Please note: HSG and fluoroscopy exams are not available as walk-ins and must be scheduled.

There are no clinical preparations required for an X-ray and an appointment is not necessary. Visit our locations page for hours of operation and services. 

A board-certified radiologist will interpret your X-ray images typically within 24 hours and the report will be sent to your referring physician who ordered the exam. Your physician will then contact you to share your results.

Preparing for Your Exam

You do not need an appointment for an X-ray, but please bring your written order from your physician and any prior images or reports from outside Washington Radiology that may be relevant to your exam.  

Weight restrictions apply to some X-ray exams. If you weigh more than 300 pounds, please call our offices to confirm your exam.

If you have questions about the exam, please contact the Washington Radiology office where your exam is scheduled and ask to speak with the nurse.

Our Locations

Coordinates
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2
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Chevy Chase, MD

1
10.16mi

4445 Willard Avenue
Suite 200
Chevy Chase, MD 20815

Washington, DC

2
10.25mi

2141 K Street, NW
Washington, DC 20037

Sterling, VA

3
14.86mi

21351 Ridgetop Circle
Sterling, VA 20166

Germantown: MRI, CT, XR

4
22.37mi

20410 Observation Drive
Suite 106
Germantown, MD 20876

Hagerstown, Trilogy II

5
58.69mi

1185 Imperial Drive
Suite 100
Hagerstown, MD 21740

Bel Air, Colonnade

6
66.17mi

100 Fulford Avenue
Bel Air, MD 21014