Radiography
What is radiography?
Radiography is one of the most common, non-invasive, and effective diagnostic methods, allowing detailed images of internal structures of the body, especially the skeletal system and lungs, to be obtained using radiography. It is widely used to diagnose fractures, changes in osteoarthritis, lung diseases, and other pathologies. The procedure is quick, painless, and safe, and modern equipment ensures high image quality with minimal radiation exposure.
When is radiography prescribed?
Radiography plays an important role in both primary diagnosis and in assessing the effectiveness of treatment and monitoring the progression of the disease.
The main radiography examinations are:
- Radiography of the skeletal system — fractures, osteoarthritis and joint pathologies, detection of flat feet, spinal curvature, etc.
- Chest radiography — lung infections, tumors, changes in the structure of the cardiovascular system, etc.
- Urological radiography — urinary tract infections, kidney disease, preoperative or postoperative examinations, etc.
- Gastrointestinal radiography — anomalies of the esophagus, stomach, and intestines, detection of foreign bodies.
- Radiography of the skull and sinuses.
Radiography can detect cysts and various types of tumors, although they are not considered the primary method for diagnosing these diseases. Tumors are often small or hidden behind various structures of the body. Therefore, radiography is mainly used to assess general changes at an early stage, and additional tests such as computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or biopsy are required for in-depth diagnosis.
How do X-rays work?
X-rays use radiation to create images of organs, bones, and soft tissues. These rays are invisible, and the patient does not feel their effects during the examination. Different structures in the body absorb radiation with varying intensity—bones appear white in the image, while soft tissues appear gray. The image is evaluated by a radiologist. The attending physician makes a diagnosis based on the radiologist's findings and prescribes treatment if necessary.
What is contrast material?
Radiography can be taken with or without contrast material. A contrast material is a special liquid that is sometimes used in examinations to make the structures inside the body appear clearly and more detailed on the image. The contrast agent is usually injected intravenously, although in some cases it is taken orally. It is safe to use, but the patient's health is checked beforehand, especially if they have kidney disease or allergies.
How is radiography performed at New Hospitals?
Radiography at New Hospitals is performed using a state-of-the-art digital machine that provides the highest image quality with minimal radiation exposure. The examinations are tailored to individual needs, including patients with disabilities and those who are overweight.
The machine has a unique SLOT program that allows the doctor to take a 140 cm long image of the body in continuous mode. This is especially important for a complete assessment of scoliosis in school-age children, as well as for determining differences in limb length. With modern technology, a large area of the body can be covered on a single plate, reducing the need for repeated exposure and protecting the patient from excessive radiation.
The examination provides a higher-resolution image, allowing the radiologist to see the smallest details. The device has a tomosynthesis function, which involves layer-by-layer radiography —for example, a three-dimensional image of a specific area of the lung or bone structures. A pediatric mode is also available, specially designed to take into account the age-specific characteristics of children.
In addition to conventional radiography examinations (such as detection of flat feet, projection of the knee joint, mandibular joint, or heel bone), fluoroscopic examinations are also performed. These include:
- Chest fluoroscopy
- Gastrointestinal tract examinations: kinetic assessment of the esophagus, stomach, duodenum, and colon, irrigoscopy;
- Urological examinations: excretory urography, cystoscopy, miction cystoscopy, and urethrocystoscopy;
- Fistulography and cholangioscopy.
Radiography at New Hospitals is performed quickly, safely, and in full compliance with modern standards, allowing patients to receive an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
What are the risks of radiography?
The level of radiation from modern digital equipment is minimal and safe. However, even a small dose of radiation can be accompanied by certain risks, especially with frequent examinations. Therefore, radiography should only be performed as directed by a doctor.
