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 – Better Health Channel

Summary

Read the full fact sheet

• An x-ray examination uses an electrical device to emit (put out) x-rays and digital technology to create two-dimensional pictures of internal body structures.
• This test is particularly useful in diagnosing conditions or diseases that affect the bones and chest.
• A conventional x-ray examination is non-invasive, painless and does not require any recovery time.
• The dose of radiation from an x-ray examination is considered safe – roughly the same as you would receive from the general environment in about one week.

An x-ray examination creates images of your internal organs or bones to help diagnose conditions or injuries. A special machine emits (puts out) a small amount of ionising radiation. This radiation passes through your body and is captured on a special device to produce the image.

The dose of radiation you will receive depends on the area of your body being examined. Smaller areas such as the hand receive a lesser dose compared to a larger area such as the spine. On average, the dose of radiation is roughly the same as you would receive from the general environment in about one week.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant. Another type of test may be recommended.

Radiographers and radiologists

The two types of health practitioners involved in x-ray examinations are:

• a radiographer who conducts the examination and is trained to create the best quality images as safely as possible
• a radiologist (a medical specialist) who is trained to interpret x-ray images.

How x-rays work

A small amount of ionising radiation is passed through the body. In the past, this went onto a sheet of special film. Nowadays x-ray examinations are more likely to use a device that will capture transmitted x-rays to create an electronic image.

The calcium in bones blocks the passage of radiation, so healthy bones show up as white or grey. On the other hand, radiation passes easily through air spaces, so healthy lungs appear black.

When x-ray examinations are used

This test is very common. About seven million x-ray examinations are made every year in Australia. Some of the many uses include:

• diagnosis of fractures – detection of broken bones is one of the most common uses of this test
• diagnosis of dislocations – an x-ray examination can reveal if the bones of a joint are abnormally positioned
• as a surgical tool – to help the surgeon accurately perform the operation. For example, x-ray images taken during orthopaedic surgery show if the fracture is aligned or if the implanted device (such as an artificial joint) is in position. X-rays may also be used in other surgical procedures for a similar purpose
• diagnosis of bone or joint conditions – for example, some types of cancer, arthritis or osteoporosis
• diagnosis of chest conditions – such as pneumonia, lung cancer, emphysema or heart failure
• detection of foreign objects – for example, metal fragments or swallowed coins.

Medical issues with x-ray examinations

Medical considerations prior to the procedure include:

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant. Another type of test may be recommended.
• A conventional x-ray examination does not require any special preparation, other than possibly having to change into a hospital gown.
• Some x-ray examinations involve the use of an iodinated contrast agent (a type of dye). This substance helps to improve the detail of the images or to make it possible to see body structures such as the bowel or blood vessels. The hospital x-ray department or private x-ray clinic will give you instructions on how to prepare for the test and what to expect.

X-ray examination procedure

Depending on the part of your body being examined, you may be asked to undress, remove all jewellery and wear a hospital gown. During the basic procedure:

• The radiographer will instruct you in positioning for the x-ray. You may be asked to stand up, lie down or sit down.
• The radiographer will place you between the x-ray machine and the imaging device that captures the x-rays being transmitted through that part of your body.
• The radiographer may shield parts of your body with a lead apron. This is to reduce the risk of unnecessary exposure to radiation.
• The radiographer will need to touch you to position your body correctly for each picture.
• The radiographer operates the controls while each image is taken. To do this, they will stand behind a screen and call instructions to you if necessary.
• You may be asked to hold your breath for a couple of seconds as each picture is taken, so that the breathing movement doesn’t blur the images.
• A straightforward conventional x-ray examination, of the hand for example, usually takes a few minutes. Other types of x-ray examination may take longer.

Immediately after an x-ray

After the x-ray you can get dressed (if you changed out of your clothes) and wait for further instructions. A radiologist will interpret the x-ray images. The results are usually sent to your doctor, so you will need to make a follow-up appointment.

Complications from x-ray examinations

An x-ray examination is a painless and non-invasive procedure. You will not be radioactive after the test. The dose of radiation is considered safe – roughly the same as you would receive from the general environment in about one week.

There is a very small (negligible) increase in your risk of developing cancer within 10 years of the x-ray examination (less than 0.01 per cent increase). It is important to try and limit the number of x-rays you get over your life.

Taking care of yourself at home after an x-ray examination

A conventional x-ray examination does not require any recovery time. You can go about your normal business as soon as you leave. If you have had an examination that has used a contrast agent, you will be given specific instructions concerning any after care that may be necessary. This might involve drinking additional water, but the radiographer will advise you.

Treatment will vary depending on the condition under investigation and the results of the x-ray examination.

Alternatives to x-ray examination

Depending on the medical condition, alternatives to x-ray examinations may include:

• ultrasound – the use of sound waves to create a picture of internal body structures
• magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) – the combination of a magnetic field and radio waves to produce three-dimensional pictures
• computed tomography scan (CT scan) – the use of x-rays and digital computer technology to create three-dimensional pictures
• bone density testing – a procedure to determine bone strength. A range of medical procedures is available.

Where to get help

• Your referring GP (doctor)
• Radiographer
• NURSE-ON-CALL Tel. 1300 60 60 24 – for expert health information and advice 24 hours, 7 days

• X-rayExternal Link, Healthcare Imaging Services.
• X-raysExternal Link, Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency.
• Ionising radiation and healthExternal Link, Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency.
• Routine x-rayExternal Link, Steinberg Diagnostic Medical Imaging Centres US.

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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.