How Much Do You Know About X-rays? | Guangzhou INNORKOM Medical Limited

X-rays, also known as Roentgen rays, were discovered in 1895 by German physicist Wilhelm Roentgen. Since then, they have become one of the most important diagnostic tools in modern medicine.

Common X-ray examinations include fluoroscopy, CR (Computed Radiography), DR (Digital Radiography), DSA (Digital Subtraction Angiography), and CT (Computed Tomography).

X-rays are electromagnetic waves with very short wavelengths and strong penetrating power. When X-rays pass through the human body, tissues of different densities absorb them differently—for example, bones absorb more X-rays than muscles. This difference creates contrast in the resulting image, allowing doctors to evaluate body structures.

Because of their clear imaging, cost-effectiveness, simplicity, and non-invasive nature, X-ray examinations remain widely used in hospitals and clinics worldwide.

Not all imaging techniques involve radiation.

• X-ray examinations (such as DR and CT) use ionizing radiation.

• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), on the other hand, does not emit radiation. Instead, it uses a powerful magnetic field and radiofrequency signals to create images.

Although MRI is radiation-free, it is not always suitable—for example, chest examinations often rely on DR or CT because the lungs are constantly in motion and require faster imaging.

Radiation risk depends on the dose. Medical professionals measure exposure in millisieverts (mSv).

• Natural background radiation: about 2–4 mSv per year.

• A chest X-ray: around 0.1 mSv.

• A routine chest CT: 2–4 mSv.

• Low-dose CT (LDCT): usually <1 mSv.

For perspective, international guidelines recommend that the annual effective radiation dose should not exceed 20 mSv per year over five consecutive years, or 50 mSv in a single year.

Modern medical imaging uses advanced technologies—such as automatic exposure control (AEC), iterative reconstruction algorithms, low-voltage scanning, and dual-energy CT—to minimize radiation while maintaining high image quality.

Therefore, a casual medical X-ray or CT scan is generally safe and should not cause excessive concern.

1. Follow doctor’s instructions and remain still during scans to avoid repeat exposures.

2. Wear protective lead aprons when necessary, especially for family members accompanying patients.

3. Children and sensitive patients should undergo tailored low-dose scans. 

4. Always weigh benefits versus risks—X-ray imaging is performed only when medically necessary.

1. Pregnant women, especially during the first trimester, should avoid X-ray examinations unless absolutely necessary.

2. Remove metal jewelry, hairpins, bras with metal parts, necklaces, or any metallic items that may interfere with imaging.

3. Children, elderly, or critically ill patients should be accompanied by family members for safety.

4. Patients should remain still and cooperative during the scan to avoid blurred images.

5. For uncooperative patients (such as infants or those with impaired consciousness), sedation may be required.

6. Breath-holding training may be necessary before chest and abdominal scans.

7. For contrast-enhanced abdominal CT, bowel preparation and fasting (4–6 hours) may be required. Patients are advised to drink 500–1000 ml of warm water 15–20 minutes before the scan and plenty of fluids afterward to help eliminate the contrast agent.

X-rays are one of the most important diagnostic tools in modern medicine. With proper protocols, advanced equipment, and dose management, X-ray examinations are safe, effective, and indispensable for disease detection and treatment.

At Guangzhou INNORKOM Medical Limited, we provide state-of-the-art Digital X-ray machines that deliver high-quality imaging with optimized radiation safety. Our equipment is trusted by hospitals and clinics worldwide to support accurate diagnosis and improve patient care.

📩 Contact us today to learn more about our Digital Radiography solutions.