What Is Elderly Patient (Geriatric) X-ray Examination?

• Elderly patient (geriatric) X-ray examination is an examination that involves elderly patients aged 65 years old and above
  (http://www.hkrta.50g.com/Academicdoc/Geriatric.pdf).
• Geriatric is a Greek word which means ‘old person’ (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geriatrics).
• Elderly citizens are always burdened with various type of chronic illness such as heart problem, cancer, and also stroke (http://www.hkrta.50g.com/Academicdoc/Geriatric.pdf).

How And Where Can I Get This Examination?

• When you visit your doctor, he/she will decide if you require the examination.
• If required, the doctor will make a request for the examination using the Radiology Examination Request Form.
• This examination is available in MoH hospitals.

When Is Elderly Patient (Geriatric) X-ray Examination Required?

Indications for elderly patient (geriatric) X-ray examination are: (http://www.cccnj.edu/uploadedFiles/ http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2628843/):

• Respiratory system problems.
• Digestive system problems.
• Problems related to upper and lower limb joint infection.
• Cardiovascular system problems.
• Hepatic system problems.
• Genitourinary system problems.
• Musculoskeletal system problems.
• Neurologic system problems.

Picture 1 : X-ray images of the hip and knee joints of geriatric patient

Source : http://www.cccnj.edu/uploadedFiles/

Before the examination

• The radiographer will explain the examination. Accompanying person is allowed to listen to the radiographer’s explanation.
• Make sure you or the accompanying person are not pregnant or suspected to be pregnant. Please inform the radiographer if you are pregnant or suspected to be pregnant.
• Patient need to take out metal object such as watch and bangles on the hand to avoid image artifact.
• Radiographer will also explain whether the examination will be done in lying facing up, lying facing down or siting position.
• Patient may also be required to change into hospital attire if needed.
• Practice for breathing technique will also be given if necessary.

During the examination

• Patient is advised not to move during the examination.
• Breathing instruction may be required.
• Patient need to give full cooperation during the examination to avoid repeat examination.
• Immobilizers may also be used if necessary.

After the examination

• No special after care is required.
• Patient will be allowed leave after the examination.
• If you have any problem, please inform the radiographer on duty.

Examination Report

All images produced will be reviewed by radiologist and report will be prepared.

References

1. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geriatrics
2. www.cccnj.edu/uploadedFiles
3. www.hkrta.50g.com/Academicdoc/Geriatric.pdf
4. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2628843/
5. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19155363