X-rays are one of the oldest methods of imaging the human body. X-rays a type of electromagnetic rays which are used to image the object when it is passed through it. X-ray examination is a painless and non-invasive method of examination of mainly the bones of the human body to yield immediate diagnosis in case urgent diagnosis.
What is the basic principle for X-ray imaging ?
X-rays are a type of electromagnetic radiation and the once passed through any object the produce an image depending upon the amount of radiation absorbed by the object or the density of the object. The same is the case with the bones of the human body, the density of bones is much more than the density of the other tissues like fat and muscles, hence the bones absorb more radiation and appear white where other tissues appear in shades of grey and since lungs are filled with air they appear black.
How does an X-ray machine look like ?
The traditional X-ray machines used to be very bulky and resembled a box or a tube structure which was positioned above an examination where the patient was made to lie down. The machine then used to move on the examination table depending upon which area needs to be imaged. The modern day X-ray machines are more easy to carry and are less bulky. The X-ray machines used for oral cavity imaging usually have a cylindrical tube which focuses on only the area that needs to be imaged sparing the adjacent tissues from radiation damage. The traditional X-ray films used to be a large sheet or small sheet resembling the negatives of the photographs, nowadays a computerized image of the radiograph can be obtained with the help of digital technology.
What are the uses of X-ray imaging ?
X-ray imaging is one of the easiest, cost effective and faster way of diagnosis of bone problems. An X-ray image is usually the first line of diagnostic aid in diagnosing bone fractures, joint diseases, bone pathologies, cancer of bone and breast, lung infections, dental decay, increased size of the heart and identifying a swallowed item.
When is an X-ray not advised ?
An X-ray examination is not advised in younger children unless it is mandatorily required as the effect of radiation is greater in children when compared to adults. The X-rays are also not advised in pregnant women specially in the first and third trimesters as they can cause fetal abnormalities.
How do you prepare for an X-ray ?
Not much preparation is required for an X-ray imaging. You will be asked to wear a hospital gown or lose clothes and also will have to remove any piece of jewelry or metal from the area which needs to be examined, as it may interfere with the X-ray imaging.
What happens during an X-ray Imaging ?
Once you are prepared for the imaging you will be either taken to the X-ray imaging unit or to the doctor’s clinic which is equipped for X-ray imaging. You will be either made to lie down on the examination table (over which the X-ray machine is positioned), or made to stand erect or made to sit still in a dental chair (during oral cavity imaging). You will also be asked to sit still and not move when the X-ray is being taken. If move during the imaging, it may distort the image. The entire X-ray imaging procedure takes about 5-10 minutes. The amount of radiation exposure is determined by your age, size and the organ to be imaged (sometimes it is predetermined according to the X-ray machine specifications for imaging of different body parts).
Who reports an X-ray image ?
An X-ray is usually reported by a radiologist who is well versed with X-raay reporting. Apart from your radiologist, your treating specialist can also diagnose the X-ray report and start the required treatment. The reporting is usually done immediately or as per the hospital’s reporting policy.
What are the risks and complications associated with X-ray imaging ?
Though the number of X-rays used during an X-ray imaging are less, but they can still be harmful to the human tissues. X-rays a type of ionizing radiation can cause eye problems like cataract, skin rashes and reddening, loss of hair and rarely cancer when used multiple number of times. Any diagnostic procedure which utilizes X-ray for imaging should not be used during pregnancy as it may cause complications.
Disclaimer: The content provided here is meant for general informational purposes only and hence SHOULD NOT be relied upon as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, care or evaluation by a qualified doctor/physician or other relevantly qualified healthcare provider.
