What is X-Ray?

An X-ray is a common, affordable, but effective medical test that allows physicians to diagnose and treat medical conditions. X-rays are non-invasive and one of the oldest but still most frequently used forms of medical imaging today. 

How Does An X-Ray Work?

A cousin to the more advanced CT scan, an X-ray utilizes electromagnetic radiation, which has very short wavelengths and higher energy than light or radio waves. While the word “radiation” can be concerning for some, a standard x-ray that is performed in a targeted manner is in safe levels for infrequent exposure for most patients. As the x-rays pass through the layers in the human body, some are absorbed by dense materials, like bones, while others make it through to the other side. This process results in a shadow-like image, similar to a film negative, that can portray an accurate picture of a given area inside the body. 

What Does An X-Ray Show?

In medical imaging processes, an x-ray is used to create and then capture images of internal body structures. Bones and joints are the most frequent subject of x-rays, but they are also used to capture imagery of certain soft tissues, like the lungs and those around the neck and chest. Muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fat can also be detected and imaged using an x-ray.

Because an x-ray shows dense materials as being white, and softer materials as being various shades of gray, an x-ray is useful for detecting foreign bodies, infections, and helping physicians to evaluate for a wide array of conditions. Some of these include:

• broken or altered bones
• pneumonia and other infections
• certain types of tumors
• arthritis
• herniated discs and scoliosis
• kidney stones

X-rays are also commonly used by dentists to locate and treat tooth cavities.

What To Expect During An X-Ray?

If your healthcare provider orders an x-ray in order to better diagnose your condition and offer treatment options, here is what to know beforehand. Since radiation beams are invisible and are not detected in any physical sensation, the process is generally smooth and easy to tolerate for patients.

It is often advised that patients receiving an x-ray remove any metal objects from their person that could interfere with results. Patients should wear comfortable clothing, or they may be offered a gown by the technician. Your physician will be aware of your health history and any current issues and will know whether or not an x-ray could pose any complications for you, but this concern is relatively rare.

The actual x-ray process typically involves the following:

• lying on a table, or either sitting or standing still
• technician positioning the camera near the area of the body in question
• repositioning limbs in order to get the correct angle for the images
• holding the breath momentarily to prevent blurred images

Once the x-ray is completed, one of our radiologists will interpret the results and send their interpretation to the patient’s physician. Feel free to contact Advantage Diagnostics prior to your procedure if you have any questions about necessary preparations. We have locations in Columbus and Beachwood, OH. We look forward to helping you on your journey to wellness and recovery.