X-rays use invisible electromagnetic energy beams to produce images of internal tissues, bones and organs on film. Standard x-rays are performed for many reasons, including diagnosing tumors or bone injuries. At a break in a bone, the x-ray beam passes through the broken area and appears as a dark line in the white bone.
Radiation used in radiology causes cells in the body to emit an electrical charge.
This electrical charge is detected by the different radiologic techniques and produces an image. Radiation during pregnancy may lead to birth defects. Always tell your radiologist or physician if you suspect you may be pregnant. X-rays can be performed on an outpatient basis or it may be part of the hospital patient's care. The x-ray beam is then focused on the area to be photographed.