Needing some X-rays? These precise and highly regarded tests have advanced in recent years. Here are some facts about radiology you might find interesting; they can help you understand the many benefits of X-rays.
X-rays and Other Imaging Tests Are Quick and Painless
For instance, a plain chest X-ray or imaging of a possible fracture of your wrist takes just a few minutes. There’s no special preparation–such as fasting–and there’s no pain or discomfort involved.
Digital X-rays Expose the Patient to Very Little Radiation
X-rays and other imaging technology have progressed almost exponentially over the past 20 years. Today’s modern tests give off far less electromagnetic radiation than in the past, making them safer for both patients and technicians. Additionally, results are available instantly and sent electronically to healthcare providers in minutes with no bulky cassettes, films, or envelopes.
Radiology Tests Are Widely and Frequently Used
Patients in the United States undergo about 150 radiology tests each and every year. These tests help healthcare providers:
- Uncover bone fractures and other kinds of tissue damage
- Reveal the presence of tumors and other disease processes and track their progress or remission
- Image retained foreign objects, such as bullets
- Assess acute diseases, such as pneumonia and other kinds of infections
Radiology Is a Primary Tool in the Practice of Dentistry
Dentists use X-rays to uncover dental diseases involving the teeth, gums, and underlying bone. X-rays also help dentists understand the position of teeth, especially in young patients whose dentition is not yet fully erupted or developed. Finally, X-rays greatly aid in treatment planning, allowing dentists to pinpoint just what a patient needs to have a healthy smile both now and in the future.
There Are Many Kinds of Radiological Assessments
Examples include digital X-rays, mammography, bone density scans, CT scans, magnetic resonance imaging, or MRI. Also, some X-rays are what doctors call interventional. These imaging techniques help doctors perform certain procedures, such as cardiac stent placement, needle biopsy, and injection of medications into and around joints, such as the intervertebral spaces. X-rays assure both doctor and patient that treatments are done as accurately and quickly as possible.
Radiology Began Back in 1895
German scientist Wilhelm Roentgen discovered and first used X-rays back in the late 1800s. Their use quickly spread throughout Europe and the United States as physicians and hospitals realized their many diagnostic benefits.
Most X-rays Need No Medications
Some, however, require injections of contrast dye to improve image quality. In general, these injections are very well tolerated and produce no side effects.
X-rays Helped Doctors Control TB
Tuberculosis infection is obvious on chest X-rays long before severe symptoms, such as its characteristic cough, develop. Using X-rays to screen miners, healthcare workers, and others has helped prevent the spread of TB and eliminate the infamous hospital TB wards common up to the mid-20th century.
X-ray Crystallography Reveals the Structure of DNA
Because of this special radiology technique, we now know that DNA–the human genetic blueprint–is a double helix.
NASA Uses Radiology
X-ray astronomy shows us amazing images of faraway galaxies, black holes, and constellations. These images give mankind the impetus and even the means to reach for the stars.
Expert Radiology Care in Glendale, NY
Our highly trained providers at EMU Health offer comprehensive care for our interventional radiology patients. They explain the details of the treatments and render timely result reporting as well. Dr. Michael Warhit is our double board-certified diagnostic and vascular/interventional radiologist. He is active in research, peer and student education, and hands-on patient care.
To know more or arrange a consultation, call us today at (718) 850-4368 or fill out our convenient online appointment request form.
We look forward to serving you!