X-Ray

About the Procedure

An X-ray is a procedure used to diagnose medical diseases and abnormalities, to identify the cause of symptoms, and to treat certain conditions. X-ray technology uses electromagnetic energy at a low wavelength and high energy to send light rays through a part of a patient's body to be captured by image receptors. Because of the varying density and constitution of the structures the rays pass through, the resulting image displays denser structures (e.g., bones) as white and, as the density of the structures decrease, they are seen in shades of grey (fat and soft tissues). An area with no structures, such as air, shows as black. The image receptor most common today is a computer using digital image processing. X-rays can be performed using contrast material, a substance which shows well on the film. One of the primary therapeutic benefits of X-rays is in controlling malignant cancer by destroying the cell's genetic material (radiation therapy). Another valuable use of X-rays is called total body irradiation, part of the process of receiving a bone marrow transplant.

An X-ray technician, or other healthcare employee trained on the machine, will position the patient for the procedure and will put a lead apron over areas of the patient's body which could be harmed by radiation. After the film or other image receptor is placed, the technician leaves the immediate area, sometimes retreating to a lead-lined booth, and pushes a button to take the X-ray. The process of taking one or two X-rays is quick, but complex procedures and therapeutic X-rays require much more time. Although the flow of rays through the body is not felt, there are situations where the positioning is uncomfortable. Mammograms can be painful for some women because the breast is compressed to spread out the tissue.

What to Know Before the Procedure

The medical community believes X-rays to be a safe diagnostic tool, stating that low dosages, such as in dentistry and CAT scans, are not harmful because they contain small amounts of electromagnetic radiation. It has been confirmed by research that radiation energy which does not pass through the body stays within it and accumulates over a long period of time with the potential for biological damage. X-rays can not be performed on pregnant women because it is known to damage the fetus and, unless there is an overriding benefit, reproductive organs of both sexes are not X-rayed.

For the majority of X-rays no preparation is required. When a contrast agent is used restrictions are likely and will be discussed by the patient's physician. Mammograms are best done during the week after the monthly menstrual period when breast tissue is the least tender. Patients should avoid deodorants, antiperspirants, powders, lotions, creams or perfumes on the skin near the X-ray site because they often contain metallic particles which would show on the X-ray.

What to Know After the Procedure

Permitted activities following the X-ray will vary according to the reason for the procedure. The results of the X-rays are available from immediately, as in dentistry, to a few days afterwards if they must be interpreted by a doctor of radiology. Many facilities now belong to local networks where the films can be put on the Internet or in e-mails and the patient may be able to view them with their physician when they meet to discuss treatment plans.

If you Need to Travel Outside of your Local Hospital

Diagnostic X-rays are generally quick and easy and are not always planned. A more extensive procedure gives the patient an opportunity to plan ahead. In therapeutic situations, such as radiation therapy for cancer, the procedure is necessary several times each week over a span of weeks or months. Travelling for a procedure depends on many variables which may include cost, skill of the healthcare personnel, availability of the specific course of treatment, ability and willingness to be out of town for a lengthy period, and more. A discussion with the physician is advised before a decision is made.