X-Ray

It is one of the very common imaging methods used in the diagnosis of several types of injuries and conditions. An X-ray test is recommended for the following:

• Detection of fractured bones
• Detection of dislocated or abnormally placed joints
• Diagnosis of joint and bone diseases such as arthritis, cancer and osteoporosis
• Diagnoses of diseases of the chest, such as lung cancer, emphysema, heart failure, fluid or air collection in the lungs and pneumonia
• Detection of the presence of foreign objects inside body, such as metal pieces or ingested coins

An x-ray test is also used as a surgical tool, for example, an image taken during a joint surgery helps the doctor in determining if the implanted device is placed in the right position. In certain cases, x-ray tests involve the use of a harmless dye (iodinated contrast agent). This dye helps in obtaining a much more detailed image and observing structures such as blood vessels and bowel.

No special preparation is needed for an x-ray test except for changing clothes and wearing a hospital gown. The individual may also be asked to remove jewellery, eyeglasses, dental fixtures, metal objects or any part of clothing that may interfere with the imaging process. Also, it is important to inform the doctor about certain conditions such as pregnancy. For pregnant women, the doctor may recommend some other imaging technique as radiation exposure can pose a risk of development defect in the foetus.

A radiographer performs an x-ray imaging procedure and guides the individual through various steps of the procedure. The following are the steps involved in an x-ray test:

• The individual has to change clothes and wear a hospital gown.
• Depending on the part of the body to be examined, the individual will be asked to lie, stand or sit in a particular position.
• The parts that are not to be examined may be covered by a lead apron to avoid unnecessary exposure to radiation.
• The individual will be asked to remain still, as moving may affect the quality of the image. He/she may also be asked to hold their breath for a few seconds while taking the image. This is to avoid the blurring of image due to breathing movements.

No risks are involved in this procedure except for radiation exposure. However, this risk is considered to be lower than the benefits of this test. An x-ray test is generally pain free, but it may cause some discomfort when an individual has to move the painful part for obtaining pictures from different angles. In case of imaging of the whole body or skeleton, it may take one hour or more.

Any variation from the normal structure in an X-ray image indicates an abnormality. Depending on the condition to be diagnosed, it could either be the presence of disease or injuries, such as fractures, bone tumours, osteomyelitis and degenerative conditions of bones.

Disclaimer: All results must be clinically correlated with the patient’s complaints to make a complete and accurate diagnosis. The above information is provided from a purely educational perspective and is in no way a substitute for medical advice from a qualified doctor.