X-ray

by Omebiro Victor

An X-ray is a quick, painless test that produces images of the structures inside the body of an individual. 

X-ray CT exam
Image by macrovector 

Beams known as X-ray beams pass through the body, and they are absorbed in different amounts which is dependent upon the density of the material they pass through. 

Dense materials like metal and bone appear as white on the X-ray film, while air show as dark/black. Fat and muscles appear as gray on the X-ray film.

Sometimes during certain type of X-ray exam, contrast medium may be needed to provide greater detail of the body. These contrast are often Iodine and Barium, and they are injected into the body before or during the exam.

Need for X-ray Exam

X-ray Of The Right Arm
X-ray of the right Arm










Some reasons X-rays are carried out on a patient.

  • FRACTURES, DISLOCATIONS, AND INFECTIONS: In literally most cases, fractures, dislocations, and infections show up in the final image of an X-ray exam (film).
  • DENTAL DECAY: Dentists use the X-rays to heck for cavities in the teeth of a patient.
  • CANCER OF BONE: X-rays can reveal bone tumours.
  • ARTHRITIS: X-rays of the joints can reveal evidence of arthritis. The progress of these arthritis can be monitored overtime by using X-rays
  • LUNG INFECTIONS: Evidence of diseases such as pneumonia, cancer, or tuberculosis to the lungs can be appreciated on an X-ray scan result.
  • ANEURYSMS AND BLOCKED BLOOD VESSELS: With the aid of an injected contrast media, the blood vessels can be clearly highlighted on the result of an X-ray scan.
  • HEART: Diseases of the heart can be highlighted using an X-ray.
  • BREAST CANCER: Through an X-ray exam called Mammography, the breast can be evaluated and breast cancer detected.
  • INGESTED R SWALLOWED ITEMS IN THE BODY: In cases of babies accidentally swallowing objects, and X-ray can show the location of this object in the body.
  • DIGESTIVE ORGANS: Problems of the digestive system can be revealed via the use of barium contrast.
Risks Of Using X-ray

EXPOSURE TO RADIATION

This is always the most common risk in dealing with X-rays, as these beams are of electromagnetic sources which thus to a certain degree may be of negative impact that good to the patient and even the medical worker.

But in contradiction to that, X-rays used in places of service are regulated by several government bodies put in place to ensure its safe use. Thus, its benefits predominantly outweighs the risks.

A Pregnant Patient

Although, it is advised that when you're pregnant or suspect you're pregnant, you should alert your doctor as radiation may be dangerous to unborn babies. In fact, pregnant women are prohibited or advised not to carry out and X-ray scan.

CONTRAST MEDIUM

The effects of contrast on patients varies between them. Some people may experience the following;

  1. A metallic taste
  2. Lightheadedness
  3. Nausea and Vomiting
  4. Itching
  5. Hives
  6. Warmth
Rare severe reactions to these contrast;
  1. Severe low blood pressure
  2. Anaphylactic shock
  3. Cardiac arrest may occur.
Preparation For X-ray Exam

Patients are advised to ask their doctor on instructions to follow subsequent to the exam as preparation for varies with each X-ray exam.

In general, patients are required to undress whatever body part is required to be examined. Patients will be given an X-ray gown to replace the dress they came with for the exam.They will also be required to un-wear metallic and jewelry objects from the body before the X-ray exam.

For Contrast examinations, special instructions are given for a certain period before the exam day. Instructions may include fasting, and restrictions specific king of diets. Patients are advised to consult their doctor for instructions on preparation before carrying out contrast examinations.

X-rays are done in offices, wherever and X-ray machine is available. The machines are responsible for the production these X-ray beams which are of safe levels. They pass through the body and produces images.

An X-ray Machine Tube Head

The Radiographer or an X-ray technologist ensures accurate positioning of the Patient's body for the required examination. Materials like pillows, sandbags, pads, wedges amy be used to ensure a comfortable position of the patient.

The exam time range is dependent on the body parts to be examined.

After The X-ray Exam

Patients are allowed to dress up in the changing and leave the X-ray room to the reception to receive their results. The results are also archived in a digital computer and stored in the hospital's PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication System).