What is an X-Ray?
An X-ray testing is a type of imaging procedure that helps to examine internal organs and bones. It is a painless, non-invasive technique used to diagnose various conditions or injuries in both children and adults. During this procedure, the ionizing radiation emitted by the device is allowed to pass through the body. These radiations are captured in a small device where the image is produced. X-ray radiation passes easily through the air spaces but is blocked by healthy bones. Therefore, healthy bones appear white or grey on an X-ray image, while lungs appear black. The dose of radiation used in X-ray exams varies depending on the area of the body being examined. Use a low dose for a small area and a high dose for a large area.
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Why is an X-Ray Done?
It is one of the most common imaging methods used to diagnose a variety of injuries and conditions. The doctor orders for the below reasons :
- Examine the area of discomfort or pain in the body.
- To keep check of the progression of the diseases, which are already diagnosed such as osteoporosis.
- To monitor the prescribed medicine, and how it is working.
An X-Ray can also be considered for :
- Bone Cancer
- Breast Tumour
- Enlarged Heart
- Blocked Blood Vessels
- Conditions affecting your lungs
- Digestive problems
- Tooth Decay
- To see the swallowed item
An X-ray machine, called a C-Arm machine, is also used as a surgical tool, for example, an image taken during joint surgery helps the doctor determine whether the implanted device is in the correct position. In some cases, X-ray tests involve the use of a harmless dye (a contrast agent containing iodine). This dye helps to obtain a more detailed image and to see structures such as blood vessels and intestines.
How to prepare for an X-Ray Test?
Except for a change of clothes and a hospital gown, no special preparation is needed for the X-ray test. The person may also be asked to remove jewelry, eyeglasses, dental items, metal objects, or any parts of clothing that may interfere with the imaging process. Also, it is important to inform the doctor about certain conditions like pregnancy. For pregnant women, doctors may recommend some other imaging techniques, as exposure to radiation may put the fetus at risk of developmental defects.
What steps are followed to perform an X-Ray Test?
The radiologist performs X-ray imaging and guides the person through the various stages of the procedure. Here are the steps involved in an X-ray exam:
- The person should change their clothes and wear a hospital gown.
- Depending on the part of the body being examined, the person will be asked to lie down, stand, or sit in a certain position.
- Unneeded parts may be covered with a lead apron to prevent unnecessary radiation exposure. The person will be asked to remain still, as movement can affect the quality of the image.
- You may also be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds while taking the photo. This is to prevent blurring of the image due to breathing movements.
There is no risk in this procedure except radiation exposure. However, this risk is thought to outweigh the benefits of this test. An X-ray exam is usually painless, but it can cause some discomfort when a person has to move the painful area to get pictures from different angles. A full body or skeletal imaging can take an hour or more.
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What do the results of an X-Ray indicate?
Any difference from the normal structure on the X-ray image indicates an abnormality. Depending on the condition being diagnosed, this may be the presence of diseases or injuries, such as fractures, bone tumors, osteomyelitis, and degenerative bone disease.
( Disclaimer: Information provided in this piece of article is purely for educational purposes only. All results must be clinically correlated with the patient’s data to make an accurate diagnosis.)