X-ray

X-Ray diffraction analysis

X-rays are a form of electromagnetic polarization that have higher vitality and can pass through any object including the human body. These invisible beams are used to produce internal images of tissues, bones, and organs on digital media. These penetrating high-energy waves infiltrate through the skin that has wavelengths ranging from 10 nanometers to 10 picometers. X-Ray wavelengths are typically shorter than UV rays and longer than that of gamma rays. X-rays are performed while diagnosing tumours or internal bone injuries.

Overview of the crucial features of X-ray

The electromagnetic waves that pass through the body creates a shadow-like image on a photographic film. This image is black and white in colour. This is due to different tissues absorb different amount of radiation, like for example, Calcium in bones absorb maximum radiation hence the colour is white, while radiation soaked by fat and other tissues is less and they appear grey.

Types of X-Ray

There are several kinds of X-rays done depending on the type of diagnosis and scanning required. Some of the types like Plain radiography or plain X-ray, CT scan also known as computed tomography, Fluoroscopy a moving Organ scan, Mammography scan of breasts, and Angiography a photographic image of blood vessels. These scannings help patients in diagnosing a medical issue and monitor treatment progression.

Procedure:

Usually, this procedure takes less than 15 minutes and has to be done under professional radiology expertise.

·        Before the X-ray is performed, a patient is asked to remove any metal objects or jewellery worn.

·        During the procedure, a patient may be asked to sit, stand or lie down on the counter, depending on the part of the body to be X-rayed.

·        The patient is asked to wear a protective shield or an apron to protect the other parts of the body being exposed to radiation.

·        It is vital for a patient to remain static and keep a normal breath, throughout the procedure.

·        Additionally, certain disabled people using a wheelchair may be asked to use different radiation-proof chairs to avoid disarrangement.

·        Once the pre-procedure is done, the radiologist snaps an image of the tormented body part.

·        This acquired image later gets reconstructed into a black and white film sheet.

·        It is a relatively painless and quick process.

Benefits of X-ray

·        The discovery of radio-magnetic waves or X-rays has proved to be a major advance in the field of medicine and healthcare.

·        X-rays are widely termed valuable medical equipment for a wide range of internal examinations and procedures of a living body.

·        X-rays are far and wide recognised as a swift and painless diagnostic procedure

·        Support medical and surgical treatment planning and monitor therapy.

·        X-rays have proved helpful in guiding medical personnel while performing curative procedures like inserting catheters, stents, or other device inside the living body.

Like every other aspect, there are risks involved like, extra radiation may develop cancerous cells. Extreme damage like skin reddening, hair loss in case of exposure to high level of radiation. In-case of injection, a larger dose of dye may lead to a lifetime risk of cancer. Higher chances for geriatrics to be inclined to such dangers.