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This is the original discovery that launched the field of diagnostic imaging. The first x-ray of a human hand was obtained in 1896 and was amazingly similar to current images. The speed of examination and the dosage of x-rays required to make the image has improved dramatically over the years. The basic process, however, remains the same. X-rays are most readily absorbed by bones due to the high calcium content and therefore do not transmit x-rays well. They appear white in standard x-ray formats. Soft tissues, of lesser density than bone, absorb less x-rays and thus cause the film to be exposed and turn gray. Film is black when little or virtually no absorption occurs due to a substance having low attenuation properties such as fat or air.
Koolau Radiology offers many types of x-ray exams. Many of the basic procedures such as chest x-ray or bone exams don’t require any special patient preparation. When ordered by a physician, they usually don’t require pre-authorization from an insurance carrier and commonly can be completed upon presentation of a request. Some x-ray tests do require special preparation of the patient. |
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