Radiology examinations help assess bones, internal organs and other anatomical structures. Baltic American Clinic performs X-ray and computed tomography (CT) examinations. The appropriate method is chosen by the doctor after considering the clinical question and the radiation exposure.
The examination method is chosen according to the suspected health problem.
X-ray and CT provide information at different levels of detail.
The indications for the examination and possible alternatives are assessed.
The findings help determine the next diagnostic or treatment steps.
When should you have a radiology examination?
Radiology examinations may be ordered when bone injuries or certain diseases of the lungs, abdomen or other organs are suspected, and to clarify the findings of other tests.
Which examinations are performed?
Choose an examination to find out what it helps assess and which doctor’s consultation may be needed. The need for an examination is decided by a doctor according to medical indications.
Bone and joint X-ray
What does it help detect? It helps detect fractures, dislocations, deformities and some degenerative changes in the joints. It does not show ligaments and menisci directly.
Who may recommend it? An orthopaedic trauma surgeon, family doctor or another doctor, depending on the injury.
Chest X-ray
What does it help detect? It helps assess the lungs and chest and detect signs of some inflammatory diseases, fluid collections or other changes.
Who may recommend it? A pulmonologist, family doctor or internal medicine physician.
X-ray of other areas of the body
What does it help detect? Depending on the area examined, it helps detect changes in bones, joints or other structures visible on an X-ray.
Who may recommend it? A specialist doctor or family doctor after assessing your symptoms.
Computed tomography (CT)
What does it help detect? Cross-sectional images help assess organs, bones and tissues in more detail when a standard examination or other tests are not enough. CT uses ionising radiation.
Who may recommend it? A specialist doctor after assessing the medical indications.
Contrast-enhanced computed tomography
What does it help detect? The contrast agent helps highlight blood vessels, blood flow in organs and certain masses. Before the examination, kidney function and any previous reactions to contrast are assessed.
Who may recommend it? A specialist doctor after assessing the medical indications.
How is the examination performed?
During an X-ray, projections of the area being examined are taken. A CT scanner produces cross-sectional images; for some examinations a contrast agent is used. Both methods use ionising radiation.
Preparing for the examination
Tell us if you might be pregnant. If a contrast-enhanced CT is planned, tell us about any kidney disease, previous reactions to contrast and the medicines you take. A kidney function test and special preparation may be needed.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
What is the difference between an X-ray and computed tomography?
An X-ray provides one or several projection images of the area examined, while CT provides cross-sectional images that allow organs and tissues to be assessed in more detail. The examination is chosen by the doctor.
Do X-ray and CT examinations use radiation?
Yes. Both examinations use ionising radiation. That is why the diagnostic benefit, the radiation exposure and possible alternatives are assessed before they are ordered.
Is a contrast agent always needed for a CT scan?
No. A contrast agent is used when it helps assess blood vessels, organs or certain changes better. The doctor decides whether it is needed.
What is important to mention before a contrast-enhanced CT?
Tell the doctor about any kidney disease, previous reactions to contrast agents, the medicines you take and possible pregnancy. This information is important when assessing the safety of the examination.
Can an X-ray or CT be done during pregnancy?
You must tell the doctor before the examination if you are or might be pregnant. The doctor will assess whether the examination is necessary and whether a diagnostic method without ionising radiation can be chosen.
Price of radiology examinations
The price of an X-ray or computed tomography depends on the area examined, the scope of the examination and whether a contrast agent is used. We will inform you about any additional procedures and the expected costs before the examination.