Strong Heart and Vascular Center

Diagnosis

Non-invasive Tests

Chest X-ray

A chest X-ray is a very common and non-invasive diagnostic test that can give your physician a great deal of information concerning the function of your heart and/or lungs. It is performed by an X-ray technician or radiologist using a machine similar to a large camera that emits a very low level of radiation. During the procedure, the patient wears an exam gown and is positioned between the X-ray machine and film. The patient will be X-rayed in various positions in order to obtain a full view of the heart and/or lungs.

A chest X-ray can help your doctor detect a variety of conditions, such as congestive heart failure, enlargement of the heart, or aortic aneurysms, to name a few.