What is General Radiography (X-ray)

A general radiography (X-ray) can be done on the chest, abdomen, pelvis, skull and extremity. It involves exposing a part of the body to a small dose of radiation to produce an image of the internal organs. When x-rays penetrate the body, they are absorbed in varying amounts by different parts of the anatomy. Ribs and bones, for example, will absorb much of the radiation and, therefore, appear white or light gray on the image. Lung tissue and other internal organs absorb lesser radiation and appear darker on the image. In this manner a “picture” of the body part is formed.

 

What are some common uses of General Radiography?

• Chest and bone x-rays are very common examinations.
• A chest x-ray is usually done for the evaluation of lungs, heart and surrounding anatomy.
• Bone x-ray is the fastest and easiest way for a physician to view and assess broken bones, cracked skull and injured backbone. At least two films are taken of a bone, and often three films if the problem is around a joint(Knee, elbow or wrist).

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