What is Bone X-ray (Radiography)?

Hand X-ray Image

An x-ray (radiograph) is a noninvasive medical test that helps physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions. Imaging with x-rays involves exposing a part of the body to a small dose of ionizing radiation to produce pictures of the inside of the body. X-rays are the oldest and most frequently used form of medical imaging.

A bone x-ray makes images of any bone in the body, including the hand, wrist, arm, foot, ankle, knee, leg or spine.

What are some common uses of the procedure?

A bone x-ray is used to:

  • diagnose broken bones or joint dislocation
  • demonstrate proper alignment and stabilization of bony fragments following treatment of a fracture
  • guide orthopedic surgery, such as spine repair/fusion, joint replacement and fracture reductions
  • look for injury, infection, arthritis, abnormal bone growths, bony changes seen in metabolic conditions
  • assist in the detection and diagnosis of bone cancer
  • locate foreign objects in soft tissues around or in bones

What is a Chest X-ray (Chest Radiography)?

Chest X-ray Image

The chest x-ray is the most commonly performed diagnostic x-ray examination. A chest x-ray makes images of the heart, lungs, airways, blood vessels and the bones of the spine and chest.

An x-ray (radiograph) is a noninvasive medical test that helps physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions. Imaging with x-rays involves exposing a part of the body to a small dose of ionizing radiation to produce pictures of the inside of the body. X-rays are the oldest and most frequently used form of medical imaging.

What are some common uses of the procedure?

The chest x-ray is performed to evaluate the lungs, heart and chest wall.

A chest x-ray is typically the first imaging test used to help diagnose symptoms such as:

  • shortness of breath
  • a bad or persistent cough
  • chest pain or injury
  • fever

Physicians use the examination to help diagnose or monitor treatment for conditions such as:

  • pneumonia
  • heart failure and other heart problems
  • emphysema
  • lung cancer
  • other medical conditions

For more information please visit www.radiologyinfo.com