What are X-rays used for in medical diagnostics. How is an X-ray procedure performed. What are the potential risks associated with X-ray tests. How are X-ray results interpreted and utilized by healthcare professionals.

Understanding X-Rays: A Vital Diagnostic Tool in Modern Medicine

X-rays are a fundamental component of medical imaging, utilizing small doses of ionizing radiation to create detailed pictures of the body’s internal structures. These images, known as radiographs, play a crucial role in diagnosing various conditions and guiding treatment decisions.

Why are X-rays so widely used in healthcare? X-rays provide a non-invasive method to visualize bones, organs, and other internal structures, allowing healthcare professionals to identify and assess a wide range of medical issues without the need for exploratory surgery.

Common Applications of X-Ray Imaging

• Detecting bone fractures and joint dislocations
• Identifying dental problems such as cavities and impacted teeth
• Diagnosing lung conditions like pneumonia and tuberculosis
• Locating foreign objects accidentally swallowed
• Assessing heart size and detecting signs of heart failure
• Screening for breast cancer through mammography

The X-Ray Procedure: What to Expect During Your Examination

How is an X-ray examination conducted? The process is typically straightforward and painless, requiring minimal preparation from the patient. In most cases, you’ll be asked to remove any metal objects or clothing that might interfere with the image quality.

During the procedure, you may be positioned standing up or lying down, depending on the area being examined. The X-ray machine, consisting of an X-ray tube and an image receptor, will be adjusted to capture the necessary images.

Key Steps in the X-Ray Process

1. Positioning of the patient and equipment
2. Exposure to a brief burst of radiation
3. Capture of the X-ray image on a digital detector or film
4. Possible repositioning for additional views
5. Review of images by a radiologist

Are X-ray procedures uncomfortable? While the examination itself is painless, you may experience some discomfort from holding still in certain positions. For some specialized X-ray procedures, a contrast agent may be administered to enhance image clarity.

Interpreting X-Ray Results: From Image to Diagnosis

How are X-ray images analyzed and interpreted? A radiologist, a medical doctor specializing in diagnostic imaging, carefully examines the X-ray images to identify any abnormalities or signs of disease. The interpretation process involves assessing the density, structure, and position of tissues and organs visible in the image.

What do different shades on an X-ray signify? Dense structures like bones appear white on X-rays, while air-filled spaces such as lungs appear black. Soft tissues and fluids show up in various shades of gray, allowing radiologists to detect subtle changes that may indicate health issues.

Timeframe for X-Ray Results

How long does it take to receive X-ray results? In emergency situations, digital X-ray images can be reviewed within minutes. For non-urgent cases, it typically takes a day or two for the radiologist to analyze the images and provide a detailed report to your referring physician.

Weighing the Benefits and Risks of X-Ray Examinations

Are X-rays safe for all patients? While X-rays are generally considered safe and the benefits often outweigh the risks, it’s important to understand the potential concerns associated with radiation exposure. Healthcare providers carefully consider the necessity of each X-ray examination to minimize unnecessary radiation exposure.

Potential Risks of X-Ray Exposure

• Slight increase in lifetime cancer risk, particularly with repeated exposures
• Higher sensitivity to radiation in children compared to adults
• Potential risks to developing fetuses in pregnant women
• Rare allergic reactions to contrast agents used in some X-ray procedures

How do healthcare providers mitigate X-ray risks? Medical professionals use the ALARA principle (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) to minimize radiation exposure while still obtaining necessary diagnostic information. This includes using protective equipment like lead aprons and carefully calibrating X-ray machines.

Advanced X-Ray Technologies: Beyond Traditional Radiographs

How has X-ray technology evolved over the years? While conventional X-rays remain a staple in medical imaging, several advanced X-ray-based technologies have emerged to provide more detailed and specialized diagnostic information.

Cutting-Edge X-Ray Technologies

• Computed Tomography (CT) scans: Combining multiple X-ray images to create detailed 3D representations of body structures
• Mammography: Specialized X-ray imaging of breast tissue for cancer screening and diagnosis
• Fluoroscopy: Real-time X-ray “movies” that capture movement within the body
• Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA): Used to measure bone density and assess osteoporosis risk

How do these advanced technologies enhance diagnostic capabilities? By providing more detailed and dynamic images, these specialized X-ray techniques allow healthcare providers to detect and diagnose conditions that may not be visible on standard X-rays, leading to more accurate and timely treatment decisions.

X-Rays in Dental Care: Illuminating Oral Health

Why are X-rays crucial in dentistry? Dental X-rays play a vital role in maintaining oral health by allowing dentists to detect issues that are not visible during a routine visual examination. These images can reveal hidden dental structures, bone loss, and decay between teeth or below existing fillings.

Types of Dental X-Rays

• Bitewing X-rays: Show details of the upper and lower teeth in one area of the mouth
• Periapical X-rays: Provide a view of the entire tooth, from crown to root
• Panoramic X-rays: Capture a broad view of the entire mouth in a single image
• Cone Beam CT: Creates detailed 3D images of teeth, soft tissues, and bone structures

How often should dental X-rays be taken? The frequency of dental X-rays depends on individual factors such as age, oral health status, and risk of dental disease. Your dentist will recommend an appropriate schedule based on your specific needs.

X-Rays and Pregnancy: Balancing Diagnostic Needs and Fetal Safety

Is it safe to have an X-ray during pregnancy? While healthcare providers aim to minimize radiation exposure during pregnancy, there are situations where the benefits of an X-ray examination outweigh the potential risks to the fetus. The decision to perform an X-ray on a pregnant woman is made carefully, considering the urgency of the diagnostic need and the stage of pregnancy.

Precautions for X-Rays During Pregnancy

• Informing healthcare providers about known or suspected pregnancy before any X-ray examination
• Using lead shielding to protect the abdomen and pelvis when possible
• Exploring alternative imaging methods such as ultrasound or MRI when appropriate
• Postponing non-urgent X-rays until after pregnancy

How much radiation exposure is considered safe during pregnancy? The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists states that exposure to less than 5 rad (50 mGy) has not been associated with an increase in fetal anomalies or pregnancy loss. Most diagnostic X-rays deliver far less radiation than this threshold.

Limitations of X-Ray Imaging: Understanding What X-Rays Can’t Show

Despite their numerous applications, X-rays have certain limitations in diagnostic imaging. What are the key limitations of X-ray technology? X-rays primarily provide information about dense structures like bones and calcifications, but they may not clearly show soft tissues or distinguish between different types of soft tissue.

Conditions Better Diagnosed with Other Imaging Modalities

• Soft tissue injuries (e.g., ligament tears, muscle strains)
• Brain abnormalities
• Detailed images of organs like the liver, pancreas, or kidneys
• Early-stage tumors in soft tissues
• Subtle bone injuries like stress fractures or bone bruises

When might alternative imaging techniques be preferred? In cases where detailed soft tissue evaluation is necessary, healthcare providers may opt for imaging methods such as MRI, ultrasound, or CT scans. These techniques can provide complementary information to X-rays, offering a more comprehensive diagnostic picture.

The Future of X-Ray Technology: Innovations on the Horizon

How is X-ray technology continuing to evolve? Ongoing research and technological advancements are pushing the boundaries of X-ray imaging, promising improved diagnostic capabilities and enhanced patient safety.

Emerging X-Ray Technologies

• Phase-contrast X-ray imaging: Enhances soft tissue contrast without the need for contrast agents
• Photon-counting detectors: Improve image quality while reducing radiation dose
• Artificial intelligence-assisted image analysis: Enhances detection of abnormalities and assists in diagnosis
• Portable and handheld X-ray devices: Increase accessibility of X-ray imaging in remote or emergency settings
• Spectral CT: Provides additional tissue characterization by analyzing how different materials absorb X-rays at various energy levels

What impact will these innovations have on patient care? These advancements aim to provide more detailed diagnostic information, reduce radiation exposure, and improve the efficiency and accessibility of X-ray examinations. As a result, healthcare providers may be able to make more accurate diagnoses and develop more targeted treatment plans.

X-Ray Safety and Radiation Protection: Best Practices for Patients and Healthcare Providers

How can patients and healthcare providers ensure the safe use of X-ray technology? While X-rays are generally safe when used appropriately, following best practices for radiation protection is crucial to minimize potential risks.

Key Principles of X-Ray Safety

• Justification: Ensuring that the benefits of an X-ray examination outweigh the potential risks
• Optimization: Using the lowest radiation dose necessary to achieve diagnostic quality images
• Limitation: Restricting the cumulative radiation dose to individuals over time

What steps can patients take to ensure their safety during X-ray examinations? Patients should maintain an open dialogue with their healthcare providers, informing them of any previous X-ray exposures or concerns about radiation. Additionally, patients should follow all instructions provided by radiologic technologists during the examination to ensure optimal image quality and minimize the need for repeat exposures.

Radiation Protection Measures for Healthcare Providers

• Regular equipment maintenance and calibration
• Proper training in radiation safety and X-ray techniques
• Use of personal protective equipment (e.g., lead aprons, thyroid shields)
• Implementation of dose monitoring and recording systems
• Adherence to established guidelines for appropriate use of X-ray imaging

How often should X-ray equipment be inspected and maintained? Regular quality assurance programs are essential to ensure the safety and effectiveness of X-ray equipment. The frequency of inspections and maintenance may vary depending on local regulations and the type of equipment, but annual evaluations are common practice.

X-Rays in Veterinary Medicine: Diagnostic Imaging for Animal Health

How are X-rays utilized in veterinary care? X-ray technology plays a crucial role in diagnosing and treating various conditions in animals, from household pets to large livestock. Veterinary X-rays help identify skeletal abnormalities, detect foreign objects, and assess internal organ health.

Common Applications of X-Rays in Veterinary Medicine

• Diagnosing fractures and joint disorders
• Identifying gastrointestinal obstructions
• Detecting dental issues in pets
• Assessing heart size and shape in animals
• Screening for hip dysplasia in dogs
• Evaluating pregnancy and fetal development in livestock

What challenges are unique to veterinary X-ray imaging? Veterinary radiologists must adapt X-ray techniques to accommodate a wide range of animal sizes and anatomies. Additionally, sedation or anesthesia may be necessary to ensure proper positioning and minimize movement during the examination.

Advancements in Veterinary X-Ray Technology

• Digital radiography systems for faster image processing and reduced radiation exposure
• Portable X-ray units for on-site imaging of large animals
• Specialized dental X-ray equipment for small animal dentistry
• Integration of artificial intelligence for automated image analysis in veterinary diagnostics

How do veterinary X-rays contribute to overall animal health? By providing valuable diagnostic information, X-rays enable veterinarians to develop targeted treatment plans, monitor disease progression, and improve the quality of life for animals under their care.

X-Rays in Industrial and Scientific Applications: Beyond Medical Imaging

Where are X-rays used outside of healthcare? X-ray technology has numerous applications beyond medical diagnostics, playing vital roles in various industries and scientific fields. These applications leverage the unique properties of X-rays to provide non-destructive testing and analysis capabilities.

Industrial and Scientific X-Ray Applications

• Quality control in manufacturing: Inspecting welds, detecting defects in materials
• Security screening: Examining luggage and cargo at airports and border crossings
• Art conservation: Analyzing paintings and artifacts to reveal hidden layers or authenticate works
• Geological studies: Examining rock samples and mineral compositions
• Space exploration: Analyzing the composition of distant celestial bodies
• Food safety: Detecting contaminants in packaged foods

How do industrial X-ray systems differ from medical X-ray equipment? Industrial X-ray systems often use higher energy levels and may employ specialized techniques such as computed tomography (CT) or X-ray fluorescence (XRF) to obtain detailed information about material composition and structure.

Emerging X-Ray Technologies in Industry and Science

• High-resolution micro-CT systems for material science research
• Synchrotron radiation facilities for advanced scientific experiments
• Portable XRF analyzers for on-site elemental analysis
• X-ray microscopy for studying nanoscale structures

What impact do these non-medical X-ray applications have on society? Industrial and scientific X-ray technologies contribute to improved product quality, enhanced security measures, scientific discoveries, and technological advancements across various sectors, ultimately benefiting society through safer products, new materials, and increased knowledge of our world and universe.

X-Rays (Medical Test) – Purpose, Procedure, Risks, Results

Written by Angela Nelson

• What Are X-Rays?
• Why Are X-Rays Done?
• What Happens During an X-Ray?
• X-Ray Results
• X-Ray Risks
• What an X-Ray Doesn’t Show
• More

X-rays are images that use a small doses of ionized radiation to take pictures of the inside of your body called radiographs.

X-rays can help doctors diagnose things like:

Doctors can also use X-rays to find an object that a child or adult swallowed. An X-ray can be used to check your lungs for signs of pneumonia or tuberculosis, to figure out why you have shortness of breath, or to see if you have heart failure.

Other ways doctors use specific X-ray procedures include:

• Mammography: This is an exam that puts your breast between a support plate and a second plate called a paddle, then a series of X-rays are taken. Doctors look closely at the images for signs of cancer or other issues.

• Computed tomography (CT) scan: A computer puts together a series of X-rays, taken from different angles, to make a 3D image and give your doctor a more detailed picture.

• Fluoroscopy: Sometimes called an ”X-ray movie,” this procedure shoots a continuous X-ray through a part of your body so doctors can see that part and how it moves. It’s most commonly done to look at bones, muscles, joints, and organs like your heart, kidneys, and lungs.

Most X-rays don’t require any special preparation. The doctor may ask you to take off jewelry, eyeglasses, or any metal objects or clothing that could get in the way of the image.

Doctors can take images while you stand up or lie down. It depends on the area of your body being examined. The X-ray tube hangs over the table. The film is in a drawer under the table.

The machine sends a beam of radiation through your body. Your hard, dense bones block that beam, so they show up as white on the film below you. The radiation also goes through softer tissue like muscle and fat, which appear in shades of gray in the X-ray. The air in your lungs will look black in the image.

You won’t feel anything during an X-ray, but it can be hard to hold still, and the exam table might be uncomfortable. The technician may take images from a few different angles. They might use pillows or sandbags to prop up a body part to get a better view of the area. They’ll probably ask you to hold your breath so the image doesn’t blur.

Sometimes, the doctor needs more contrast on the image to clearly see what’s going on. They might give you a contrast agent, like barium or iodine. You’ll either swallow it or get it as a shot.

The machine makes clicks and buzzing sounds during the X-ray. The process could take just a few minutes for a bone X-ray or more than an hour for more complicated issues.

A radiologist will look at your X-rays. A radiologist is a medical doctor who is specially trained in reading and understanding the results of imaging scans like X-rays. X-ray images are digital, so a radiologist can see them on a screen within minutes in an emergency. For nonemergencies, it may take a day or so for them to review the X-ray and get back to you with the results.

X-rays are one of the oldest and most common forms of medical imaging. Doctors say the benefit of making the correct diagnosis outweighs the risks. Still, there are a few safety issues to consider.

1. Slight cancer risk. Too much radiation exposure can cause cancer, but the amount in an X-ray is generally low. Adults are less sensitive to radiation than children.

2. Kids and X-rays. If your child needs an X-ray, the technician may restrain them to make sure they stay still. This will prevent the need for repeated tries. It won’t hurt them. If you stay in the room with them, you’ll get a lead apron to wear to prevent radiation exposure.

3. Pregnancy. Tell your doctor if you’re pregnant or think you might be. They may use a different imaging test so your baby isn’t exposed to radiation.

4. Reaction to contrast agent. There’s a chance you could have an allergic reaction, but it’s rare. Ask your doctor what symptoms to watch for. Let them know if you have pain, swelling, or redness at the site of the shot.

X-rays are great to check for broken bones or rotting teeth, but other imaging tests are better if you have something happening with the soft tissue parts of your body such as the kidneys, intestines, or your brain.  

Your doctor may order an MRI instead of an X-ray to diagnose injuries like a ligament tear in your knee or torn rotator cuff in your shoulder. MRIs can also show tiny fractures or bone bruises, which may not appear on an X-ray, and it is often used to diagnose a broken hip. And MRIs are a good tool to see spine injuries, as doctors can see both the bones in your spine and spinal cord.

Doctors also may order a CT scan. A CT scan also may be used in an emergency room to diagnose problems such as a head injury, kidney stones or the cause of abdominal pain, or for diagnosing a blood clot in the lungs, which is also called a pulmonary embolism.

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X-Rays (Medical Test) – Purpose, Procedure, Risks, Results

Written by Angela Nelson

• What Are X-Rays?
• Why Are X-Rays Done?
• What Happens During an X-Ray?
• X-Ray Results
• X-Ray Risks
• What an X-Ray Doesn’t Show
• More

X-rays are images that use a small doses of ionized radiation to take pictures of the inside of your body called radiographs.

X-rays can help doctors diagnose things like:

Doctors can also use X-rays to find an object that a child or adult swallowed. An X-ray can be used to check your lungs for signs of pneumonia or tuberculosis, to figure out why you have shortness of breath, or to see if you have heart failure.

Other ways doctors use specific X-ray procedures include:

• Mammography: This is an exam that puts your breast between a support plate and a second plate called a paddle, then a series of X-rays are taken. Doctors look closely at the images for signs of cancer or other issues.

• Computed tomography (CT) scan: A computer puts together a series of X-rays, taken from different angles, to make a 3D image and give your doctor a more detailed picture.

• Fluoroscopy: Sometimes called an ”X-ray movie,” this procedure shoots a continuous X-ray through a part of your body so doctors can see that part and how it moves. It’s most commonly done to look at bones, muscles, joints, and organs like your heart, kidneys, and lungs.

Most X-rays don’t require any special preparation. The doctor may ask you to take off jewelry, eyeglasses, or any metal objects or clothing that could get in the way of the image.

Doctors can take images while you stand up or lie down. It depends on the area of your body being examined. The X-ray tube hangs over the table. The film is in a drawer under the table.

The machine sends a beam of radiation through your body. Your hard, dense bones block that beam, so they show up as white on the film below you. The radiation also goes through softer tissue like muscle and fat, which appear in shades of gray in the X-ray. The air in your lungs will look black in the image.

You won’t feel anything during an X-ray, but it can be hard to hold still, and the exam table might be uncomfortable. The technician may take images from a few different angles. They might use pillows or sandbags to prop up a body part to get a better view of the area. They’ll probably ask you to hold your breath so the image doesn’t blur.

Sometimes, the doctor needs more contrast on the image to clearly see what’s going on. They might give you a contrast agent, like barium or iodine. You’ll either swallow it or get it as a shot.

The machine makes clicks and buzzing sounds during the X-ray. The process could take just a few minutes for a bone X-ray or more than an hour for more complicated issues.

A radiologist will look at your X-rays. A radiologist is a medical doctor who is specially trained in reading and understanding the results of imaging scans like X-rays. X-ray images are digital, so a radiologist can see them on a screen within minutes in an emergency. For nonemergencies, it may take a day or so for them to review the X-ray and get back to you with the results.

X-rays are one of the oldest and most common forms of medical imaging. Doctors say the benefit of making the correct diagnosis outweighs the risks. Still, there are a few safety issues to consider.

1. Slight cancer risk. Too much radiation exposure can cause cancer, but the amount in an X-ray is generally low. Adults are less sensitive to radiation than children.

2. Kids and X-rays.If your child needs an X-ray, the technician may restrain them to make sure they stay still. This will prevent the need for repeated tries. It won’t hurt them. If you stay in the room with them, you’ll get a lead apron to wear to prevent radiation exposure.

3. Pregnancy. Tell your doctor if you’re pregnant or think you might be. They may use a different imaging test so your baby isn’t exposed to radiation.

4. Reaction to contrast agent. There’s a chance you could have an allergic reaction, but it’s rare. Ask your doctor what symptoms to watch for. Let them know if you have pain, swelling, or redness at the site of the shot.

X-rays are great to check for broken bones or rotting teeth, but other imaging tests are better if you have something happening with the soft tissue parts of your body such as the kidneys, intestines, or your brain. 

Your doctor may order an MRI instead of an X-ray to diagnose injuries like a ligament tear in your knee or torn rotator cuff in your shoulder. MRIs can also show tiny fractures or bone bruises, which may not appear on an X-ray, and it is often used to diagnose a broken hip. And MRIs are a good tool to see spine injuries, as doctors can see both the bones in your spine and spinal cord.

Doctors also may order a CT scan. A CT scan also may be used in an emergency room to diagnose problems such as a head injury, kidney stones or the cause of abdominal pain, or for diagnosing a blood clot in the lungs, which is also called a pulmonary embolism.

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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 are significant indications.

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.
• Rapid imaging capability (depending on X-ray type 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, post-processing of data, archiving, printing, data transfer over a local network.

Among the advantages of analog X-rays, one can note only an affordable price: usually such equipment is 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 layer-by-layer examination. 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 layer-by-layer 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 set of studies that combine 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.

Medical procedures using x-rays

X-ray methods of research can be used not only for the prevention and control of the condition of sick patients, but also as a method of monitoring the patient during therapeutic measures.

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.
• In oncology when stopping bleeding during surgery or procedures.

Drawing conclusions

X-ray examinations are a complex of various diagnostic manipulations using specialized equipment.

Today, X-ray diagnostics is one of the most informative and accurate ways to study the internal systems of the human body.

Many pathological processes and disorders can be detected only by X-ray, which indicates the need for it in some clinical cases.

X-ray (X-ray) of the chest organs – Clinic “Doctor nearby”

Chest x-ray is a precise method of examination in which x-rays pass through the internal organs, and the resulting images are projected onto film or displayed on a monitor screen. During the diagnostics, the specialist receives data on the state of the respiratory organs, heart, pleural cavities, mediastinum, ribs and other structures located in the chest cavity.

Human organs and tissues react differently to ionizing radiation: the higher their density, the brighter the object in the picture. Accordingly, the bones on the film will be light, and the soft tissues will be gray.

Modern technologies make it possible to carry out x-rays with a minimum radiation load per person due to the precise focusing of the beams. Classical Plain X-ray imaging chest organs are issued on film. When using digital settings, tissues and organs can be viewed on a computer monitor and output results on digital media.

A therapist, traumatologist, surgeon or other narrow specialist can write out a referral for x-rays to a patient.

X-ray indications

• pneumonia and other inflammatory diseases of the respiratory system
• suspected tumors of the chest
• tumor metastasis
• enlarged lymph nodes
• inflammatory processes in the pleura
• rib fractures
• changes in the size of the heart, pericarditis
• chest pain
• quality control of treatment

Contraindications

How is the test?

The procedure is carried out in a specially prepared X-ray room. Previously, the patient must remove clothes from the upper part of the body and remove all metal jewelry from the area under study. After that, the subject takes a place in front of the shield, where the film cassette is located, and leans tightly against it with his chest. Next, you should follow the recommendations of the radiologist: take a full breath and hold your breath for a while. At this time, a snapshot is taken. In some cases, the diagnosis is carried out on exhalation.

X-ray is carried out in one or two projections: anterior and lateral. If necessary, a detailed study of individual areas, the patient can take other positions. The procedure is absolutely painless and lasts no more than one minute. Ready-made images with descriptions are issued within 15-30 minutes, more time may be required when taking a series of images.

When performing fluoroscopy of the chest organs, the radiologist examines the data obtained in real time on the monitor screen.

Digital X-ray

In recent years, digital (computer) radiography has replaced the usual traditional X-ray examination. New technologies make it possible to obtain high-resolution images much faster, which speeds up the process of making a definitive diagnosis. The image is received immediately in digital format. This eliminates the possibility of image distortion. With conventional radiography, the conclusion is made from one x-ray image on the film. This information carrier needs to be developed, which takes a lot of time.

Compared to the conventional research method, the radiation exposure to the patient is reduced by 40%, which prevents the development of complications.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between X-ray and Fluorography?

The essence of fluorography is as follows:

using a special installation, the shadows of the area under study are photographed from a fluorescent monitor onto film. The procedure is widely used in the screening of tuberculosis and pneumonia.

Radiography is a modern, improved and high-precision alternative to fluorographic examination, since organs are fixed on a film or digital matrix in real scale. If during fluorography it is possible to obtain shadows of 5 mm in size, then with X-ray diagnostics blackouts of 2 mm are visible.

Today, fluorographic diagnostics is more of a preventive nature and gives only a general idea of ​​the state of the body.

To clarify the diagnosis, the patient needs to perform a chest x-ray.

How often can I have the procedure?

The latest X-ray equipment made it possible to make radiography as fast and safe as possible for the patient’s health. The state of the chest organs can change significantly even in a short period of time.

Relatively healthy people can do x-rays once a year. More frequent testing is recommended only if indicated.

Is X-ray dangerous for a child?

When examining a child, doctors often resort to this procedure. X-ray allows you to diagnose various diseases of the chest cavity with minimal loss of time and money. Of course, an X-ray is prescribed only after an examination by a pediatrician and if the child has strict indications for this.

It is important to remember that the child’s body is more susceptible to X-rays. Therefore, the maximum allowable radiation dose for medical research for a child will be less than for an adult. During the year, a total radiation dose not exceeding 1 mSv can be received. In case of violation of this rule, the risk of developing various oncological pathologies increases.

The duration of diagnostics and the amount of X-ray exposure are the determining factors when choosing equipment for examination. On the old X-ray equipment, which is still used by municipal health institutions, the body receives a radiation dose of 0.3 mSv. The duration of contact of the chest with the device is one second.

Innovative digital equipment emits 10 times less radiation, and the procedure lasts no more than 0.02 seconds. The examination itself takes only 10-15 minutes. To detect diseases in children, preference is given to digital radiography. This choice is especially relevant when it becomes necessary to conduct multiple studies.

The procedure for children under 12 years of age has its own characteristics. During the study, a parent or any other adult must be in the room with the child. It is important to ensure that the subject does not move and metal jewelry is removed from the body.

The medical staff puts a special lead apron on the child. This protects the body from excessive exposure. The area of ​​the body to be examined remains open.

A timely diagnosed disease is easier to treat, which means that various negative consequences for the body of a small patient are prevented. The study helps to identify pathologies of the musculoskeletal system, heart, lungs and bronchial tree. These can be congenital anomalies, the consequences of traumatic injuries, infectious-inflammatory or tumor processes. With the help of X-ray examination, the doctor evaluates the results of the treatment and the dynamics of the course of the disease.

How quickly are test results released?

After 15–30 minutes, the patient receives pictures and a conclusion on the diagnostic results. Based on the results of X-ray diagnostics, additional laboratory or instrumental examinations, as well as consultations of relevant specialists, may be prescribed.

What are the advantages of X-ray?

Today, radiography is carried out using modern equipment, which makes it possible to obtain detailed high-resolution images and detect dangerous diseases in the early stages of development.