Skull X-ray

X-Ray, Skull

How It Is Done

A skull X-ray is taken by a radiology technologist. The X-ray pictures are usually read by a doctor who specializes in interpreting X-rays (radiologist).

You will need to remove any jewellery that may be in the way of the X-ray picture. You will also need to remove glasses or dentures.

You may be asked to lie on an X-ray table or sit in a chair. The bones of the skull and face are so detailed that several views from different angles are needed. A series of X-ray pictures is usually taken from the front, back, top, and sides of your head. You should hold your head completely still while the pictures are being taken. A padded brace, foam pads, a headband, or sandbags may be used to hold your head in place while the pictures are taken.

Skull X-rays usually take about 10 to 20 minutes. You will wait about 5 minutes until the X-rays are developed in case repeat pictures need to be taken. In some clinics and hospitals, X-ray pictures can be made immediately on a computer screen (digitally).

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Author:	Carrie Henley Jan Nissl, RN, BS	Last Updated: July 26, 2006
Medical Review:	Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine Paul D. Traughber, MD - Radiology Kenneth B. Sutherland, CD, BSc, MD, FRCPC - Diagnostic Radiology
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