X-Ray

X-Ray-often called CONVENTIONAL RADIOGRAPHY/PLAIN FILMS (SCOUT FILMS)
Enhanced films - pt. given a dye to enhance the image

-the view you get with an X-ray is the last body part that the x-ray passed through is closest on the picture.
i.e. an A-P view will show the posterior structures closest(on top of the ant. structures)
-the view you get is indicated by the secon word in the name of the view.
i.e. A-P view show post structures; M-L view would be for lateral structures

-X-Ray is useful when talking about body density

4 Naturally Occuring Densities in the Body
1.) Gas/Air (least dense) will show up BLACK on an X-Ray
2.) FAT--absorbs more of the X-Ray -- so it may show up gray
3.) Soft Tissue- plain films are NOT a reliable visual for soft tissue
4.) Bone- absorbs the X-Ray the most-- will show up wite on the X-Ray
-Metal also shows up wite on an X-Ray---BRIGHT WHITE!! Much Brighter then Bone!

- attenuation- absorption of X-Ray
- Film starts off as being white and turns Black as you expose it.

Radiography Technicians consider there to be a normal visual order. It is:
1.) X-Ray
2.) CT Scan
3.) MRI

X-RAY Contrast Studies:
1.) GI
2.) GU Vascular
3.) Myelogram
4.) Arthrogram
5.) Fluroscopy

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