Name of the Procedure:

Radiologic Examination, Facial Bones; Less than 3 Views Common name(s): Facial X-ray

Summary

A radiologic examination of the facial bones using X-ray imaging, capturing less than three distinct views. This is a non-invasive diagnostic procedure used to assess the structure and any abnormalities in the bones of the face.

Purpose

Medical Condition or Problem Addressed:

• Facial trauma or injury
• Suspected facial fractures
• Infections or congenital abnormalities affecting facial bones

Goals or Expected Outcomes:

• To obtain detailed images of the facial bone structure
• To diagnose or rule out fractures, infections, or other bone-related conditions
• To guide treatment planning

Indications

Specific Symptoms or Conditions:

• Facial pain or swelling
• Visible facial deformities
• Unexplained facial asymmetry
• Post-traumatic assessment after an accident or injury

Patient Criteria:

• Any patient with symptoms or history suggestive of facial bone abnormalities
• Patients requiring pre-surgical planning or post-surgical evaluation

Preparation

• No special fasting or medication adjustments are typically required.
• Patients may be asked to remove any jewelry or metallic objects from the head and neck area.
• Inform the technician if you are pregnant or suspect you might be pregnant.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is positioned in front of the X-ray machine, either sitting or standing.
2. The radiologic technologist adjusts the machine to focus on the specific areas of the facial bones as per the required views.
3. The patient is asked to remain still and hold their breath momentarily while images are captured.
4. Two or fewer X-ray images (views) are taken from different angles.
5. The images are reviewed for clarity, and additional images may be taken if necessary.

Tools/Equipment: X-ray machine, protective lead aprons Anesthesia/Sedation: Not required

Duration

Typically takes about 10-15 minutes.

Setting

Performed in a hospital radiology department or an outpatient imaging center.

Personnel

• Radiologic Technologist: Performs the X-ray and captures images
• Radiologist: Interprets the X-ray images

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Minimal exposure to low doses of radiation Rare Risks:
• Potential discomfort due to positioning

Benefits

• Provides accurate assessment of facial bone structure
• Non-invasive and quick diagnostic tool
• Immediate results aiding in prompt diagnosis and treatment

Recovery

• No recovery time needed; patients can resume normal activities immediately.
• Follow any additional instructions provided by the radiologist based on findings.

Alternatives

• CT Scan: Provides more detailed images, used in complex cases Pros: More detailed imaging Cons: Higher radiation exposure, more expensive
• MRI: Used if soft tissue evaluation is also needed Pros: No radiation, excellent soft tissue contrast Cons: More expensive, longer duration

Patient Experience

• The patient may feel a brief discomfort while holding still in specific positions.
• Minimal discomfort overall, with the process being largely quick and straightforward.
• Pain management is not typically required.