Plain radiography, or x-ray, is the original form of diagnostic imaging. It uses small amounts of radiation passed through the body to produce a shadow image on film. Radiography is commonly used in evaluation of: the chest for such abnormalities as fluid around the heart, pneumonia, lung cancer, or pulmonary embolism; the musculoskeletal system for identifying injuries or arthritic disease of bone and joints; and gastrointestinal and urinary tracts for detecting ulcers, tumors, blockages, or stones.

Mammography, also a type of x-ray examination, is used to identify early cancers in breast tissue. Women over 40 years of age are advised by the American Medical Association to have yearly mammographic screenings to detect early cancer.

For most x-ray examinations, no special preparation is required. Imaging of the lower gastrointestinal tract, however, usually calls for fasting and occasionally an enema or laxative the night before the exam. Follow the instructions provided by your physician. As with most other imaging procedures, jewelry and other metallic articles should be removed because they may interfere with the exam.

The patient is positioned on a table by the technologist and asked to lie still for several seconds while the x-ray is performed. Typically two or more x-rays are taken from different angles to give the radiologist multiple views of the region being studied.

A radiographic exam examination usually takes from 15 to 30 minutes to perform.

Women should schedule a mammogram at a time when their breasts are likely not to be tender, such as the week before their menstrual period. The breast is compressed in a cassette for better visualization and both a top-to-bottom and a side view of each breast will be taken. Occasionally, additional views or an ultrasound exam may be requested by the radiologist.

For some x-ray examinations involving the lower gastrointestinal and urinary tracts, a contrast agent will be administered to a patient either intravenously or rectally as a barium enema. These agents enhance visualization of the structures being studied. The barium enema can cause mild discomfort. Patients should contact their physician if they have no bowel movement for more than 2 days after the exam.

Radiography is almost never performed on pregnant women.