An X-ray is a safe and simple procedure used to develop an internal image of the body. Radiation passes through the body creating a residual image. Denser areas of the body, like bones, appear white, while the softer organs and tissues are much darker.
Sometimes a liquid contrast medium like barium or iodine is used to highlight specific, softer areas of your body, such as blood vessels and organs.
A digital x-ray utilises digital sensors rather than film to create an internal image of your body.
Almost any part of the body can be examined via an x-ray. Typically, x-rays are used to examine the condition of, or damage to, the skeleton.
However, by administering a contrast medium radiologists are also able to check the condition of the heart, blood vessels, bowels, digestive tract and other internal organs.
A digital x-ray can be used to diagnose of number of conditions including:
There are a variety of reasons that a doctor or dentist may advise you to get a digital x-ray. For example, to:
A risk commonly associated with x-rays is radiation exposure, which can lead to cancer. However, patients are typically only exposed to a few seconds of low level radiation in a localised area.
Digital x-rays use less radiation, lowering the probability of any negative side effects.
You can find out more about the levels and risks of x-rays from the Patient Dose Information Fact Sheet, published by Public Health England.
On rare occasions patients may suffer from a severe reaction to the contrast medium and experience:
Depending on the condition you are suffering from the consequences could range from serious to severe or even fatal.
Many of the illnesses or damage that x-rays can uncover, like broken bones, blood clots and cancer, benefit from early detection and treatment.
What the equipment specifications for a digital x-ray
Because the image is developed and stored digitally it can be viewed straight away.
The amount of radiation used is also less than a traditional x-ray.
X-rays are used for a variety of circumstances but generally speaking x-rays require minimal preparation.
Your radiologist will discuss the specifics of the procedure and any instructions you will need to follow before your test.
You can find out some general information about preparing for a digital x-ray below.
There are no special dietary requirements or preparations you need to make before undertaking a digital x-ray.
Your radiologist may ask you to abstain from food or drink for several hours before the procedure if a contrast medium is going to be used. These liquids may need to be ingested, injected or inserted via an enema depending on which area of the body is being tested.
Prior to the x-ray, your radiologist will inform you if a contrast medium is necessary and will explain how it will be administered.
You should alert your radiographer if you have had any previous reactions to radiation or contrast mediums.
You don’t need to bring anything for a digital x-ray. Everything needed will be supplied by the radiographer.
You will be provided with a place to change and a hospital gown to wear.
You will need to remove any metallic items, such as jewellery, watches, eyewear and belts, as these items can show up on the x-ray.
You will be asked to remove any clothing obstructing the area to be x-rayed and given a medical gown to wear instead, so you should try and wear something that is comfortable and easy to remove.
The process of creating a digital x-ray will only take a couple of seconds. However, you should allow at least an hour to account for preparation, setup and the entire procedure (which may consist of multiple x-rays).
A digital x-ray is a very simple procedure which requires minimal set-up and is usually completed within a few minutes.
Typically the radiographer will take several x-rays of the same area from different angles.
The exact procedure for a digital x-ray will depend on the area which needs to be examined. The radiographer may require you to:
The actual x-ray will only take a few seconds, but you will need to keep completely still during this time, to ensure that the image is clear (movement can result in a blurred image).
The most important thing is to listen to the radiographer and follow their instructions exactly.
Depending on the reason for the x-ray and the suspected condition, the radiologist may discuss the results with you immediately or send off the results to your GP or specialist.
A majority of patients experience no side-effects after an x-ray and will be able to return home and participate in normal activities straight away.
Some patients may experience temporary side effects from the contrast medium, if one was used. Possible side effects include:
A majority of patients are able to drive home immediately after a digital x-ray.