X-ray
X-rays are a form of radiation, like light or radio waves, that
can be focused into a beam, much like a flashlight beam. Unlike a beam of
light, however, X-rays can pass through most objects, including the human body.
When X-rays strike a piece of photographic film, they can produce
a picture. Dense tissues in the body, such as bones, block (absorb) many of the
X-rays and appear white on an X-ray picture. Less dense tissues, such as
muscles and organs, block fewer of the X-rays (more of the X-rays pass through)
and appear in shades of gray. X-rays that pass only through air appear black on
an X-ray picture. Many centers are changing from film to using
computers for digital pictures. Credits
| Author | Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS | | Editor | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA | | Associate Editor | Pat Truman, MATC | | Primary Medical Reviewer | Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine | | Specialist Medical Reviewer | Paul D. Traughber, MD - Radiology | | Last Updated | December 30, 2008 |
| Author: |
Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS |
Last Updated: December 30, 2008 |
| Medical Review: |
Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Paul D. Traughber, MD - Radiology |
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