An X-ray is a high-energy and high-frequency electromagnetic radiation that is used as a form of medical imaging technology, specifically allowing doctors to see inside the human body and determine problems. X-ray machines produce a beam of X-rays onto a detector, but how the imaging works is determined by the interaction between the radiation and matter. More dense elements are able to absorb the energy X-rays emit, while less dense elements get passed through. Human bones are dense, meaning that they absorb X-ray energy. Human tissue, however, is less dense and X-rays are able to pass through it easily. The detector, which sits on the opposite end, is able to create an image based on the radiation very precisely. The dense matter shows up as a lighter color, white, while less dense areas appear darker, such as gray or black. With a developed image, doctors can clearly label problems they cannot otherwise see.

Today, x-ray technology has many different uses. While it is now seeing usage in security, testing electronics, and researching materials, x-rays have had an important role in the field of medicine as they are commonly used for medical imaging. Allowing doctors to see the internal structure of the body is very helpful for diagnosing and treating injuries that may go unnoticed otherwise. For example, tumors begin very small within the body, and many are very difficult to notice even with a physical examination. X-rays, however, are one way to confirm the existence of a tumor in the body on many occasions. On top of being used for early cancer detection, they help confirm several other potential medical issues. They are commonly used to determine broken or fractured bones, as well as health in the lungs with conditions such as pneumonia. Furthermore, x-rays are used in the field of dentistry very commonly. It is used to help take precise pictures of people’s teeth, which can help bring light to problems such as gum disease, cavities, and impacted teeth. With imaging capabilities, x-rays remain an incredible tool for the field of medicine.

There are four main types of X-ray imaging systems, all of which have different general purposes. Today, digital radiography (DR) is the standard X-ray system, overtaking film X-rays due to the benefits of computer software. Alongside software, the images are able to be artificially clarified to create an overall stronger image. Another form of X-ray system is the computed tomography or CT scan. CT scans are able to capture bone, soft tissue, and blood vessels in one, while a standard X-ray cannot. In addition, they are generally more pinpointed in a specific area of the body but generally require exposure to more radiation compared to a standard X-ray. A fluoroscopy is a real-time X-ray imaging system that is commonly used to aid specific procedures, mainly in orthopedics and gastrointestinal investigations. The final main type of X-ray imaging includes mammography, which is specifically used to help diagnose and screen for breast cancer or other breast diseases. Additionally, a screening using mammography can be easily scheduled for women because of how common breast cancer is.

Scheduling any other X-ray imaging for screening is typically not allowed. In general, a doctor must approve and see a fit reason for one.

The amount of time it takes to perform an urgent X-ray will generally vary with factors such as a specific injury or condition, the equipment availability, and the number of patients waiting for an X-ray. X-rays are extremely quick and can take less than 10 minutes to complete. In the case of an emergency, receiving your x-ray results will not take long, ranging anywhere from a few minutes to a couple of hours, but will indeed vary in conjunction with the complexity of tand theimaging and the number of radiologists present. However, in a non-emergency situation, you can expect to receive word of the results in a couple of days due to the number of people who may need immediate radiologist opinion, on top of the other people in a non-emergency situation. Though the wait may be intimidating, it is important to remain patient as doctors want to be sure of their conclusions.

Looking for X-ray services? Visit us at League Health, Urgent Care to get the top services. For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We are located at 23541 Westheimer Pkwy Suite 160, Katy TX 77494. We serve patients from Katy TX, Cinco Ranch TX, Richmond TX, Houston TX, Cypress TX, Fulshear TX, Memorial City TX, and Sugarland TX, and surrounding areas.