RADIOLOGY
RADIOLOGY
RADIOLOGY
CARIÑO
MD-3
X-RAY
1. OVERVIEW
Description
X-ray, or radiography, is the oldest and most common form of medical imaging.
An X-ray machine produces a controlled beam of radiation, which is used to create an image of the inside
of your body. This beam is directed at the area being examined. After passing through the body, the beam
falls on a piece of film or a special plate where it casts a type of shadow. Different tissues in the body block
or absorb the radiation differently. Dense tissue, such as bone, blocks most of the radiation and appears
white on the film. Soft tissue, such as muscle, blocks less radiation and appears darker on the film. Often
multiple images are taken from different angles so a more complete view of the area is available. The
images obtained during X-ray exams may be viewed on film or put through a process called “digitizing” so
that they can be viewed on a computer screen.
Sometimes an X-ray exam includes contrast. For a contrast study, you will receive a drug called a
contrast agent, which will highlight or contrast parts of the body so they show more clearly on the X-ray
image.
2. USES
Example of Uses
X-ray exams can be used to view, monitor, or diagnose
Bone fractures
Joint injuries and infections
Artery blockages
Abdominal pain
Cancer
3. PROCEDURE
Benefits
X-ray exams are fast and easy.
The equipment used is relatively inexpensive and widely available.
Risks
X-ray exams exposure patients to radiation. The amount of radiation exposure is variable depending
upon the X-ray type (for example, of the brain, lungs, or abdomen) and the X-ray machine type (for
example, different models and manufacturers). Because the radiation exposure is variable, the risks are
also variable. Please speak to your radiologist, or your physician who refers you for the X-ray exam, for
specific details on radiation exposure and possible risks.
Women should inform their doctor if they are or may be pregnant or nursing prior to any radiological
imaging. Your doctor may recommend another type of test to reduce the possible risk of exposing your
baby to radiation.
There is a rare risk of a major allergic reaction to the contrast agent.
Results
X-rays are recorded on film or recorded digitally. A radiologist, who is a physician with specialized
training in X-ray and other imaging tests, will analyze and interpret the results of your X-ray and then send
a report to your personal physician. For non-emergency situations, it usually takes a day or so to interpret,
report, and deliver the results. Contact your personal physician for information on the results of your exam.
4. UPDATES
REFERENCES:
American College of Radiology Imaging Network website:
https://www.acrin.org/PATIENTS/ABOUTIMAGINGEXAMSANDAGENTS/ABOUTXRAYS.aspx