What is the purpose of an X-ray. How is an X-ray procedure performed. What are the potential risks associated with X-ray imaging. When should you consider getting an X-ray. How does X-ray technology work to create diagnostic images.

Understanding X-Ray Imaging: A Powerful Diagnostic Tool

X-ray imaging has been a cornerstone of medical diagnostics for decades, offering healthcare professionals a non-invasive way to examine the internal structures of the body. This powerful tool has revolutionized the way doctors diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions, from broken bones to lung diseases.

But what exactly is an X-ray, and how does it work? An X-ray is a form of electromagnetic radiation that can pass through most objects, including the human body. When directed at a specific area, X-rays create images of the internal structures based on the density of the tissues they encounter. Denser materials, such as bones, appear white on X-ray images, while softer tissues appear in shades of gray.

The Science Behind X-Ray Imaging

X-rays work by emitting a controlled burst of radiation that passes through the body and is captured on a special film or digital detector. The amount of radiation that passes through depends on the density of the tissues it encounters. This difference in absorption creates the contrast we see in X-ray images, allowing doctors to identify abnormalities or injuries.

Common Uses of X-Ray Imaging in Medical Diagnosis

X-rays serve a multitude of purposes in the medical field. They are instrumental in diagnosing and monitoring various conditions, as well as guiding treatment decisions. Some of the most common reasons for ordering an X-ray include:

• Examining areas of pain or discomfort
• Monitoring the progression of diagnosed diseases like osteoporosis
• Evaluating the effectiveness of prescribed treatments
• Detecting bone fractures and joint problems
• Identifying lung conditions such as pneumonia or tuberculosis
• Locating foreign objects in the body
• Diagnosing dental issues like cavities and impacted teeth

Can X-rays detect all types of medical conditions? While X-rays are incredibly useful, they have limitations. Some conditions, particularly those affecting soft tissues, may not be visible on a standard X-ray. In such cases, other imaging techniques like MRI or CT scans may be more appropriate.

The X-Ray Procedure: What to Expect

Undergoing an X-ray is typically a quick and painless process. The procedure itself usually takes only a few minutes, though the entire visit may last longer due to preparation and positioning. Here’s what you can generally expect during an X-ray procedure:

1. You may be asked to change into a hospital gown, depending on the area being examined.
2. The radiologist or technician will position you to capture the best possible image of the area in question.
3. You’ll be instructed to remain still during the imaging process to ensure clear results.
4. The X-ray machine will be activated for a brief moment to capture the image.
5. Multiple images may be taken from different angles for a comprehensive view.

Is any special preparation required for an X-ray? In most cases, no special preparation is needed for a standard X-ray. However, for certain types of X-rays, such as those examining the gastrointestinal tract, you may be asked to fast for a period of time or take a contrast material to enhance the visibility of certain structures.

Specialized X-Ray Procedures: Beyond the Basics

While standard X-rays are useful for many diagnostic purposes, there are several specialized X-ray procedures designed for specific medical needs. These include:

Mammography

Mammograms are specialized X-rays used to detect breast cancer and other abnormalities in breast tissue. They use a lower dose of radiation and are specifically designed to image the soft tissues of the breast.

Fluoroscopy

This technique uses a continuous X-ray beam to create real-time moving images of internal structures. It’s often used to guide minimally invasive procedures or to observe the function of certain organs.

Computed Tomography (CT) Scans

CT scans use X-rays to create detailed cross-sectional images of the body. They can provide more comprehensive information than standard X-rays and are particularly useful for diagnosing conditions in soft tissues.

How do these specialized procedures differ from standard X-rays? While they all use X-ray technology, these specialized procedures are tailored to provide more detailed or specific information about certain parts of the body. They may use different techniques, equipment, or contrast materials to enhance the visibility of particular structures or functions.

Safety Considerations and Radiation Exposure in X-Ray Imaging

While X-rays are generally considered safe, they do involve exposure to small amounts of ionizing radiation. The level of radiation used in most diagnostic X-rays is very low and is not associated with significant risks for most people. However, it’s important to understand the potential risks and take appropriate precautions.

Are X-rays safe for everyone? For most adults, the benefits of X-ray imaging far outweigh the minimal risks associated with radiation exposure. However, certain groups may need to take extra precautions:

• Pregnant women: X-rays are generally avoided during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary, as radiation can pose risks to the developing fetus.
• Children: Children are more sensitive to radiation, so extra care is taken to minimize exposure.
• People with certain medical conditions: Some conditions may make individuals more sensitive to radiation effects.

To minimize risks, healthcare providers follow the ALARA principle (As Low As Reasonably Achievable), using the lowest possible radiation dose to obtain the necessary diagnostic information.

Interpreting X-Ray Results: From Image to Diagnosis

After an X-ray is taken, the images are carefully analyzed by a radiologist – a doctor specially trained in interpreting medical images. The radiologist will examine the X-ray for any abnormalities or signs of disease, and then provide a detailed report to the referring physician.

How long does it take to get X-ray results? The time it takes to receive X-ray results can vary. In emergency situations, results may be available within minutes. For routine X-rays, it may take a day or two for the radiologist to analyze the images and send a report to your doctor.

Common Findings in X-Ray Images

X-rays can reveal a wide range of information about the body’s internal structures. Some common findings include:

• Fractures or dislocations in bones
• Arthritis and other joint abnormalities
• Lung infections or tumors
• Heart enlargement or fluid around the heart
• Kidney stones or gallstones
• Bone spurs or degenerative changes in the spine

It’s important to note that while X-rays can provide valuable information, they are often just one part of the diagnostic process. Your doctor may recommend additional tests or imaging studies to confirm a diagnosis or gather more detailed information.

Advancements in X-Ray Technology: The Future of Medical Imaging

X-ray technology has come a long way since its discovery in 1895 by Wilhelm Conrad Röntgen. Today, ongoing advancements continue to improve the quality, safety, and capabilities of X-ray imaging.

Digital Radiography

Digital X-ray systems have largely replaced traditional film-based X-rays in many healthcare settings. Digital systems offer several advantages, including:

• Faster image acquisition and processing
• Lower radiation doses
• Ability to enhance and manipulate images for better visualization
• Easier storage and sharing of images

Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry (DXA)

DXA scans use two different energy levels of X-rays to measure bone density and body composition. This technology is particularly useful for diagnosing osteoporosis and assessing fracture risk.

Photon-Counting CT

This emerging technology promises to revolutionize CT scanning by providing higher-resolution images with lower radiation doses. Photon-counting detectors can differentiate between different energy levels of X-rays, potentially allowing for more detailed tissue characterization.

How will these advancements impact patient care? These technological improvements are expected to lead to more accurate diagnoses, reduced radiation exposure, and potentially earlier detection of diseases. As X-ray technology continues to evolve, we can anticipate even more precise and personalized medical imaging in the future.

Preparing for Your X-Ray: Tips for a Smooth Experience

While X-rays are typically straightforward procedures, there are steps you can take to ensure a smooth and efficient experience:

1. Inform your healthcare provider of any medications you’re taking, as some may interfere with the imaging process.
2. Remove any jewelry or metal objects from the area being X-rayed, as these can obscure the images.
3. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that can be easily removed or adjusted if necessary.
4. If you’re pregnant or think you might be, inform your doctor and the X-ray technician.
5. Follow any specific instructions provided by your healthcare team, such as fasting before certain types of X-rays.

Should you be concerned about radiation exposure from a single X-ray? For most people, the radiation exposure from a single X-ray is minimal and does not pose significant health risks. However, it’s always a good idea to discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider, who can provide personalized advice based on your individual health situation.

By understanding the X-ray process and following these preparation tips, you can help ensure that your X-ray procedure is as effective and stress-free as possible, providing your healthcare team with the valuable diagnostic information they need to guide your care.

X-Ray: Purpose, Procedure, and Risks

X-Ray: Purpose, Procedure, and Risks

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Medically reviewed by Deborah Weatherspoon, Ph. D., MSN — By Brian Krans — Updated on September 2, 2020

An X-ray is a common imaging test that’s been used for decades. It can help your doctor view the inside of your body without having to make an incision. This can help them diagnose, monitor, and treat many medical conditions.

Different types of X-rays are used for different purposes. For example, your doctor may order a mammogram to examine your breasts. Or they may order an X-ray with a barium enema to get a closer look at your gastrointestinal tract.

There are some risks involved in getting an X-ray. But for most people, the potential benefits outweigh the risks. Talk to your doctor to learn more about what is right for you.

Your doctor may order an X-ray to:

• examine an area where you’re experiencing pain or discomfort
• monitor the progression of a diagnosed disease, such as osteoporosis
• check how well a prescribed treatment is working

Conditions that may call for an X-ray include:

• bone cancer
• breast tumors
• enlarged heart
• blocked blood vessels
• conditions affecting your lungs
• digestive problems
• fractures
• infections
• osteoporosis
• arthritis
• tooth decay
• needing to retrieve swallowed items

X-rays are standard procedures. In most cases, you won’t need to take special steps to prepare for them. Depending on the area that your doctor and radiologist are examining, you may want to wear loose, comfortable clothing that you can easily move around in. They may ask you to change into a hospital gown for the test. They may also ask you to remove any jewelry or other metallic items from your body before your X-ray is taken.

Always tell your doctor or radiologist if you have metal implants from prior surgeries. These implants can block X-rays from passing through your body and creating a clear image.

In some cases, you may need to take a contrast material or “contrast dye” before your X-ray. This is a substance that will help improve the quality of the images. It may contain iodine or barium compounds. Depending on the reason for the X-ray, the contrast dye may be given in different ways, including:

• via a liquid that you swallow
• injected into your body
• given to you as an enema before your test

If you’re having an X-ray to examine your gastrointestinal tract, your doctor may ask you to fast for a certain amount of time beforehand. You will need to avoid eating anything while you fast. You may also need to avoid or limit drinking certain liquids. In some cases, they may also ask you to take medications to clear out your bowels.

An X-ray technologist or radiologist can perform an X-ray in a hospital’s radiology department, a dentist’s office, or a clinic that specializes in diagnostic procedures.

Once you’re fully prepared, your X-ray technician or radiologist will tell you how to position your body to create clear images. They may ask you to lie, sit, or stand in several positions during the test. They may take images while you stand in front of a specialized plate that contains X-ray film or sensors. In some cases, they may also ask you to lie or sit on a specialized plate and move a large camera connected to a steel arm over your body to capture X-ray images.

It’s important to stay still while the images are being taken. This will provide the clearest images possible.

The test is finished as soon as your radiologist is satisfied with the images gathered.

X-rays use small amounts of radiation to create images of your body. The level of radiation exposure is considered safe for most adults, but not for a developing baby. If you’re pregnant or believe you could be pregnant, tell your doctor before you have an X-ray. They may suggest a different imaging method, such as an MRI.

If you’re having an X-ray done to help diagnose or manage a painful condition, such as a broken bone, you may experience pain or discomfort during the test. You will need to hold your body in certain positions while the images are being taken. This may cause you pain or discomfort. Your doctor may recommend taking pain medicine beforehand.

If you ingest a contrast material before your X-ray, it may cause side effects. These include:

• hives
• itching
• nausea
• lightheadedness
• a metallic taste in your mouth

In very rare cases, the dye can cause a severe reaction, such as anaphylactic shock, very low blood pressure, or cardiac arrest. If you suspect you’re having a severe reaction, contact your doctor immediately.

After your X-ray images have been collected, you can change back into your regular clothes. Depending on your condition, your doctor may advise you to go about your normal activities or rest while you’re waiting for your results. Your results may be available on the same day as your procedure, or later.

Your doctor will review your X-rays and the report from the radiologist to determine how to proceed. Depending on your results, they may order additional tests to develop an accurate diagnosis. For example, they may order additional imaging scans, blood tests, or other diagnostic measures. They may also prescribe a course of treatment.

Ask your doctor for more information about your specific condition, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Last medically reviewed on December 5, 2016

How we reviewed this article:

Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

• Contrast materials. (2016, March 17)
  radiologyinfo.org/en/pdf/safety-contrast.pdf
• Mayo Clinic Staff. (2015, March 26). X-ray
  mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/x-ray/basics/definition/prc-20009519
• X-ray (radiography): Bone. (2016, April 6)
  radiologyinfo.org/en/info.cfm?pg=bonerad

Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.

Current Version

Sep 2, 2020

Written By

Brian Krans

Edited By

Frank Crooks

Dec 5, 2016

Medically Reviewed By

Deborah Weatherspoon, Ph.D., MSN

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Medically reviewed by Deborah Weatherspoon, Ph.D., MSN — By Brian Krans — Updated on September 2, 2020

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Purpose, Procedure, Risks, and More

Skull X-Ray: Purpose, Procedure, Risks, and More

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Medically reviewed by Daniel Murrell, M. D. — By Brian Krans — Updated on June 19, 2018

What is a skull X-ray?

A skull X-ray is an imaging test doctors use to examine the bones of the skull, including the facial bones, the nose, and the sinuses. See a Body Map of the skull.

It’s an easy, quick, and effective method that has been used for decades to help doctors view the area that houses your most vital organ — your brain.

Prior to your X-ray, your doctor will tell you the exact reason for your X-ray. A skull X-ray is typically done after a traumatic head injury. The X-ray allows your doctor to inspect any damage from the injury.

Other reasons you may undergo a skull X-ray include:

• decalcification of the bone
• deformities in the skull
• fractures of the skull or facial bones
• frequent headaches
• infection of the bones of the skulls
• occupational hearing loss (caused by your job)
• tumors

X-rays require little preparation on your part.

Before the X-ray, you may need to undress from the waist up and change into a hospital gown. You may be able to keep your clothing on if your clothing doesn’t have metal snaps or zippers.

You’ll have to remove any jewelry, eyeglasses, and other metals from around your head. This includes necklaces and earrings. Metal can interfere with the clarity of the X-ray image.

Inform your doctor if you have any kind of surgically implanted device, such as a metal plate in your head, an artificial heart valve, or a pacemaker. Even though these things might interfere somewhat with the image, your doctor may still choose to perform an X-ray.

Other scans, such as an MRI, can be risky for people with metal in their bodies.

An X-ray is performed in a special room with a movable X-ray camera attached to a large metal arm. It’s designed to be able to take multiple X-rays of various body parts.

For a skull X-ray, you’ll sit in a chair or lie down on a specialized table. A drawer under the table contains the X-ray film or a special sensor that helps record the images on a computer. A lead apron will be placed over your body, which will protect your body (especially the genital region and breasts) from radiation.

The X-ray technician may have you lie on your back to start, but you’ll have to change positions so the camera can capture front and side views. While the images are being taken, you’ll be asked to hold your breath and stay very still. You won’t feel the X-ray pass through you.

The procedure should take about 20 to 30 minutes. Once the test is complete, you can go about your day as you normally would.

While X-rays use radiation, none of it remains in your body when the test is done. Doctors argue that the benefits of the test outweigh any risk from exposure to the minimal amount of radiation produced.

However, while the level of exposure is considered safe for adults, repeated exposure may not be safe for developing fetuses. If you’re pregnant or trying to get pregnant, talk to your doctor.

A radiologist and your doctor will go over the images, which are usually developed on large sheets of film.

As the radiation passes through your body onto the film, denser materials, such as bone and muscle, appear white. Tumors and other growths may also appear white. When presented against a lit background, your doctor and radiologist will be able to determine any problems.

Depending on what the X-rays show, your doctor may order other follow-up imaging scans, such as an MRI or CT scan.

Last medically reviewed on June 18, 2018

How we reviewed this article:

Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

• Bone X-ray (radiography). (2018).
  radiologyinfo.org/en/info.cfm?pg=bonerad
• Hessenbruch A. (2002). A brief history of x-rays.
  ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12535920
• Mayo Clinic Staff. (2018). X-ray.
  mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/x-ray/about/pac-20395303
• Ratnapalan S, et al. (2008). ‘Doctor, will that x-ray harm my unborn child?’ DOI: 10.1503/cmaj.080247
  
• X-rays of the skull. (n.d.).
  hopkinsmedicine.org/healthlibrary/test_procedures/neurological/x-rays_of_the_skull_92,P07647

Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.

Current Version

Jun 19, 2018

Written By

Brian Krans

Jun 18, 2018

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Daniel Murrell, MD

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X-ray examination of the stomach

Fluoroscopy is a method of dynamic examination using X-rays, which allows you to observe the state of the internal organs in real time and choose the best projection for the picture. Radiography is the process of taking a picture of an organ on a special photographic film. Allows you to fix the image and see the small details that are smeared during fluoroscopy.

X-ray examination is prescribed if the patient has pain in the upper abdomen, difficulty in swallowing, nausea and stool disorders (diarrhea or constipation). In most cases, in addition to the stomach itself, the esophagus and duodenum are also examined. At the same time, the shape of the organs, the relief of the mucous membrane are examined, and the success of the organ in performing its function is also assessed. As a preparation for the study in case of disruption of the intestines, constipation, flatulence, a few days before the procedure, it is recommended to switch to a slag-free diet, exclude sweets, fresh bread, milk, cabbage, carbonated drinks, everything fried and fatty from the diet. You can eat eggs, cheeses, boiled lean meat, cereals on the water and stale bread. It is also not superfluous to do a cleansing enema two to three hours before the study.

Stomach x-ray with barium

To obtain reliable data, an x-ray of the stomach with barium is performed only on an empty stomach, so it is often prescribed in the morning. On the day of the examination, you should not take medicines (especially those that reduce acidity), smoking and chewing gum are prohibited, because. this prevents the contrast agent from evenly enveloping the mucosa.

Immediately before the examination, the patient is asked to drink a contrast liquid. Usually barium sulfate is used (a thick liquid of pale milky color with a taste of chalk), and in case of individual intolerance, an iodine-containing substance is used. In some cases, it may be necessary to drink a solution of soda in addition to the contrast, so that the stomach is filled with air and straightened out.

During the examination, the radiologist observes the passage of contrast through the digestive tract and takes a series of images. To avoid blurring the image, you need to hold your breath for the duration of the picture. First, the patient is standing, and the stomach is translucent in a vertical position in front and obliquely to the left. Then he lies down on the X-ray table, and the organs are examined horizontally. During the study, the doctor may periodically approach and press on the abdominal cavity so that the contrast is evenly distributed along the inner wall of the stomach. Typically, a barium x-ray of the stomach takes 20 minutes, but sometimes the procedure can be delayed.

Immediately after the examination, the patient should drink a large amount of water to dissolve the contrast fluid – this will help to remove it from the body more easily. Drinking plenty of fluids is recommended for another one or two days, as sometimes barium can lead to indigestion and constipation. Also, within a few days after the examination, the patient’s stool can be painted white or gray. The dose of radiation that the patient receives during the study is small.

With the help of X-rays, first of all, structural deviations associated with changes in contours are revealed:

• hiatal hernia;
• Ulcers and polyps;
• Varicose veins of the walls of the stomach and esophagus;
• Tumors;
• Malabsorption syndrome;
• Narrowing of the duodenum;
• Helps identify gastrointestinal motility disorders.

Department

Radiology Department

X-ray examinations – SaFire

X-ray examinations are carried out using specialized X-ray equipment operating on the basis of electromagnetic radiation.

Modern X-ray diagnostics includes linear and spiral tomography, fluorography, radiography, fluoroscopy, multislice computed tomography, radionuclide scintigraphy, interventional radiology and other research methods.

The purpose of X-ray examination is to obtain information about the functional and anatomical and morphological properties of the area under study.

The combination of various diagnostic methods allows you to see the most complete and accurate clinical picture of the pathology, determine the key problem and the cause of the patient’s ailments, and detect signs of the disease even at an early stage of its progression.

Fields of application of X-ray research methods

• Pulmonology (with bronchography).
• Orthopedics.
• Gastroenterology (for contrast studies of the organs of the gastrointestinal tract).
• Angiopulmonography (X-ray examination using the CT method).
• Examination of the biliary system.
• Traumatology (for emergency diagnosis of damaged tissues).
• Cardiology.
• Urology.

Computerized technology, widely used today, helps to expand the possibilities of X-ray diagnostics. With their help, research becomes more accessible, faster and more informative.

Advantages and disadvantages of X-ray examinations

The main advantages of X-ray examination methods include: high information content due to good visualization quality and special technologies, as well as the ability to quickly obtain the necessary data.

Safety issues

Despite many advantages, radiodiagnosis is not completely safe due to the use of ionizing radiation, which adversely affects tissues.

This explains the need for X-ray examinations only if there is an essential indication.

In addition, during the procedure, strict observance of protective manipulations is mandatory, as well as the organization of certain conditions to minimize the effects of radiation on the patient’s body and medical workers.

Analog and digital x-ray equipment

Due to the introduction of digital technologies, analog x-ray machines are gradually losing ground to digital equipment.

A distinctive feature of

The receiving element of digital x-rays are sensors that are sensitive to radiation. The resulting image can be transferred to a PC (personal computer).

Analogue (film) systems are capable of outputting images to film, but this is limited by this equipment. In this case, the photosensitive film requires additional manipulations for its processing.

Advantages of digital equipment:

• Image quality is much better.
• Digital sensors are highly sensitive.
• Resolution increased.
• Radiation exposure has been reduced to an acceptable minimum.
• Fast acquisition of images (depending on the type of X-ray examination and equipment used). On average, 10-20 minutes is enough. Some types of examinations (for example, panoramic jaw scanning) allow you to get a result after 5 minutes.
• Extended data handling capabilities: the ability to save the results obtained after X-ray examination on a computer, editing, data post-processing, archiving, printing, data transfer over a local network.

Among the advantages of analog x-rays, one can only note an affordable price: such equipment is usually cheaper than digital equipment.

X-ray Methods

The X-ray method is selected based on the patient’s age group, suspected or long-standing disease, some individual characteristics of the organism and other criteria.

X-ray fluorography is a research method that allows to detect pathologies of the chest organs.

Linear tomography involves layering. Special technologies provide visualization of the organ at a certain depth. Linear tomography is used to diagnose the osteoarticular apparatus and organs of the chest and other organs.

Panoramic scanning is a layered examination method used to diagnose the upper cervical vertebrae, dentition, temporal bones, and other systems.

X-ray computed tomography (CT) is one of the most modern methods of X-ray examination. The specialist gets the opportunity to see various organs and tissues, their internal structure.

The helical tomography is used to reconstruct data in various planes. This method allows you to see images of organs in a three-dimensional format, which improves the quality of visualization and the X-ray examination itself.

Radionuclide diagnostics implies the registration and measurement of the radiation of special preparations that are previously introduced into the patient’s body.

This method makes it possible to assess anatomical and dynamic changes, to determine disorders and pathologies at the cellular and molecular level. It is considered universal and is used in various fields.

Positron Emission Tomography (PET) is an X-ray method that uses a CT scanner. During the diagnosis, it is possible to assess the intensity of metabolism in different systems.

Methods of interventional radiology – a complex of studies combining catheterization angiography, puncture manipulations, drainage, biopsy, ultrasound (ultrasound), as well as monitoring using X-ray equipment: CT (computed tomography), MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), many other methods.

Fistulography is a procedure during which the fistula tract is filled with a special contrast agent based on barium sulfate and iodolipol.

Pneumography is a method that uses gas that is injected into the patient’s soft tissues to improve diagnostic accuracy.

Arthrography is a method in which the joint cavity is filled with a special contrast agent. With this X-ray method, the doctor can examine the articular surfaces.

X-ray treatments

X-ray methods can be used not only to prevent and control the condition of sick patients, but also as a method of monitoring the patient during treatment.

In what areas can it be used?

• In the field of gynecology X-ray equipment can be used not only for examination of the organs of the reproductive system, but also for laparoscopy and endoscopic procedures.
• In the field of surgery (general and emergency) for vascular embolization, for stopping bleeding.
• In the field of urology in combination with laparoscopic and endoscopic procedures.