X-ray was discovered in 1895 by Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen. X-rays have provided physicians with images of internal anatomical structure without surgery since the beginning of the 20th century. An X-ray image is produced when a small amount of radiation passes through the body striking an image receptor, typically a screen containing element that emits light when struck by that X-ray. The light generated then forms an image on film of the body part X-rayed.
X-ray is far safer than earlier generation procedures. This advanced technology uses more filters, lead aprons and barriers when necessary. Digital x-ray is offered as a state-of-the-art alternative for better manipulation of the image and a faster exam time for the patient. The most common use for a general x-ray is to assist the physician in identifying fractures. X-ray images can also be used to identify other diseases such as lung infection (pneumonia) or kidney stones.
