Digital X-Rays
What Are X-Rays?
X-rays are high-energy electromagnetic beams of radiation that can penetrate solid objects and body tissues. Their ability to penetrate structures depends on the density of those structures. Higher-density structures, such as bones, absorb X-rays and do not allow them to pass through.
What Is an X-Ray Study?
An X-ray study is a rapid, painless diagnostic procedure that uses low-dose X-ray radiation to produce images of the body's internal structures. It is most commonly used to detect bone fractures. Dense areas of the body, such as bone, appear white on an X-ray image because X-rays cannot pass through them. When a fracture is present, the fracture line appears black. The lungs also appear black due to the air they contain. White areas in the lungs may indicate conditions such as tumors or pneumonia. Fat and muscle appear as varying shades of gray.
Indications for X-Rays
Besides detecting bone fractures, X-rays can also be used to evaluate:
- Abnormal spine curvature, such as scoliosis
- Chest and abdominal lesions
- Developmental abnormalities
- Bone tumors
- Tooth decay
- Dental abscesses or cysts
- Breast cancer
- Swallowing abnormalities
X-rays are not recommended if you are pregnant.
What Are Digital X-Rays?
Digital X-ray, also known as digital radiography, is an advanced X-ray technology that uses an electronic sensor instead of traditional X-ray film. It instantly produces digital images that can be stored and displayed on a computer. Digital X-rays reduce radiation exposure by 80% to 90% compared to traditional X-rays.
How to Prepare for Digital X-Rays
Your X-ray technician will guide you to the examination room, where you will be instructed to change into a patient gown. You will be asked to remove jewelry and other metal items that may interfere with the passage of X-rays. Unless instructed otherwise by your doctor, continue taking your regular medications.
How Do Digital X-Rays Work?
The steps involved in this technique include:
- Image Generation: Electromagnetic radiation passing through the tissues and organs is captured by a digital receptor to create digital images.
- Processing: The images are processed by imaging software to enhance image quality.
- Archiving: Images are stored on digital storage media.
- Presentation: The images are displayed on a computer screen for review.
Advantages of Digital X-Rays
- Digital X-rays produce significantly lower levels of radiation compared to traditional X-rays. Additional precautions are also taken to further reduce patient exposure.
- Digital images are available immediately for review.
- Digital X-rays eliminate the need for film, reducing harmful waste and chemical disposal.