X-ray refers both to the invisible energy beams we use and the quick procedure itself. As the beam passes through your body, different tissues absorb or scatter the rays in varying amounts. The remaining pattern reaches a detector to create an image, allowing doctors to spot disease, foreign objects, or structural damage with speed and precision.
Seeing Beyond the Surface: Your health revealed with X-ray clarity.
What to expect during an X-ray
You may be asked to change into a gown, depending on the area being imaged.
Remove jewelry, belts, or any metal objects that could blur the picture.
The technologist will position you—sitting, standing, or lying down—to capture the best view.
Most X-ray exams take less than 10 minutes from start to finish.
Benefits
When medically necessary, the diagnostic value of an X-ray far outweighs its small radiation risk.
Exams are performed with minimal exposure and protective shielding whenever possible.
Quick, widely available, and ideal for evaluating bones, lungs, and soft-tissue concerns.
Risks & Precautions
X-rays use ionizing radiation; although the dose is low, any exposure adds a slight lifetime cancer risk.
Radiation levels are generally much lower than those from a CT scan.
Pregnant or possibly pregnant patients should inform the technologist so alternative imaging or additional shielding can be used.
Overall
With proper technique and modern low-dose equipment, X-ray imaging remains a safe, time-efficient tool for fast, accurate diagnosis.