Skeletal Survey

A skeletal survey is a radiological test that scans the major bones of the human body. This comprehensive x-ray assessment of the skeleton is used to diagnose a number of diseases and conditions.

An x-ray evaluation of the skull, chest, spine and long bones is included in most skeletal surveys. Long bones are defined as the bones in which the length exceeds the width. For instance, an x-ray for long bones would consist of the femur, tibia and fibula for a leg and the humeri, radii and ulnas for the arm. The hands and feet also contain long bones, which are called metacarpals and phalanges.

Your doctor may have ordered a skeletal survey to diagnose a range of medical conditions and diseases such as:

• Diagnosing multiple myeloma,
• To examine bone damage due to the trauma of an accident,
• To diagnose degenerative bone disease and osteomyelitis.

It is important to inform a member of staff as soon as possible if you are pregnant or suspect you are pregnant BEFORE the test is performed. The examination may not be appropriate or special considerations or precautions might need to be taken.

You may be repositioned for multiple views and the process is repeated. The radiographer will give you instructions and help you into the correct position.

It is extremely important for you to remain still while the picture is being taken, as any movement will blur the image.

For safety reasons there cannot be anyone in the room during the scanning of an x-ray and relatives must wait outside. A radiographer will be behind the glass window a short distance away watching the patient at all times during the scan should there be any concerns.