X - Ray Optic Foramen -Left

This test is for

Male, Female

Test Preparation

Depending on the area to be imaged, you may be asked to wear a hospital gown at the time of the scan.
You may have to remove your jewelry and any metal objects which might interfere with the image.
Pregnant women should inform their doctor (and x-ray technician) as the radiations may affect the fetus. If needed, precautions can be taken to lower the radiation exposure to the fetus.

Understanding X - Ray Optic Foramen -Left

What is X - Ray Optic Foramen -Left?

X-ray of the optic foramen is a safe and painless test to visualise the opening of the optic canal (known as the optic foramen) which is located at the base of the skull. The optic canal carries the optic nerve and the ophthalmic artery into the orbital cavity. The image is recorded on a special X-ray film using small amount of radiation. The X-ray image is black and white. Dense structures such as the bones, appear white and softer body tissues, such as the skin and muscles appear darker. The actual exposure time to radiation is usually less than a second, although the overall test may take 15-20 minutes.

What is X - Ray Optic Foramen -Left used for?

To diagnose any fractures of the bones surrounding the optic foramen
To look for any changes in the shape or size of the optic canal which may compress the nerve and arteries passing through it
To detect the presence of any optic neuropathies or any suspected infections and inflammations in this area
To diagnose any suspected abnormal growth in this area (for eg. neurofibromatosis)

Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about X - Ray Optic Foramen -Left

Frequently Asked Questions about X - Ray Optic Foramen -Left

Q. What are the drawbacks of a bone X-ray?

X-ray images give a very clear view of the bones. However, it does not provide a good visual image of the soft tissues like tendons, muscles or fat tissue under the skin. Even the bone microfractures or complicated spine injuries are not clearly visible on the X Ray images. Apart from this, it also exposes the patient to some amount of radiations but the benefit of the information gained from an X-ray image outweighs the risk of radiations.

Q. Who interprets the X-ray results?

The interpretation of an X-Ray image is carried out by a radiologist who analyses or reads the X-ray image and prepares a report of the findings which is shared with the patient.