X-rays examination includes exposure to the specialized form of electromagnetic radiation called x-rays later passes through the body and makes an impression which can be read by a qualified radiologist. Using a machine individual x-ray particles called photons are emitted and send to the patient body. These particles pass through the body.

 

A computer or special film is used to record the images that are created. Dense structures like bones will block most of the x-ray particles, and will appear white. Metal and contrast media if used will also appear white. Air filled structures will appear black and muscle, fat, and fluid will appear as shades of gray. The test is usually performed in a hospital radiology department or in the health care provider's office by an x-ray technologist. The patient is positioned with film and x-ray machine as per the requirements of the treating physician. Motion may cause the blurring of the image and hence the patient is asked to hold his breath and stand without any motion. Usually the exposure is very brief may be in some case less than 1 second. Pregnant ladies and the woman having intrauterine devices inserted should inform the doctor before going for the examination. Before going for the abdominal x-ray examination it must be ensured that patient has not taken any contrast containing barium, in such cases the examination is postponed for few days so that the contrast is effectively passed from the body. All jewellery and heavy clothing’s are removed before the examination. Patient will generally not feel any uncomfortable condition.

Risks

A few numbers of photons are absorbed by tissues in the body while going for the x-ray examination. The energy due to the absorption of photons can result in ionization of compounds which may cause cell damage which may be permanent in some cases. The exposure to the x-ray can predispose the patient to the risk of cancer or other inherited disorders due to the damage of the sperm and the ovarian cells. Before going for the x-ray it is advisable to outweigh the benefits versus the side effects that can result from the exposure to the x-ray. Young children and developing fetus carried by pregnant women are more sensitive to the risks of x-rays. Pregnant women should tell physicians about suspected pregnancy.

Types of X-Ray

• Dental x-ray
• Neck x-ray
• Pelvis x-ray
• Thoracic spine x-ray
• Hand x-ray
• Lumbosacral spine x-ray
• Skull x-ray
• Bone X-ray
• Joint x-ray
• Chest x-ray
• Abdominal x-ray
• Barium x-ray
• Gallbladder x-ray
• X-ray of the skeleton