X-Rays Vs Ct Scans

CT scanners and X-ray machines are extremely similar in relation to the absorption and display of x-rays as they are both able to display bone. However, an x-ray is usually done when dealing with bones rather than a CT scan as x-rays can detect denser materials better. When the x-ray is being done a black photographic film is placed behind the part of the body that is being scanned and when the x-ray beams hit this part of the body, the bones block the x-ray beams meaning the blocked image is shown as white on the photographic film. Extremely dense or solid structures (such as bone) don’t allow any or allow very little x-ray energy to be absorbed meaning they are shown on the photographic film clearly and any problem can clearly be seen. Problems associated with bones and teeth such as fractured or broken bones can be detected, problems with the joints like gaps between two joints can be detected, changes of density within organs can be detected as tumours or blocked up organs are shown to have shadows and collection of liquid can also be detected again as shadows would be seen on the photographic film. X-rays are much more effective than CT scans when viewing bones or solid structures and they give a clearer picture meaning the radiographer can diagnose a problem or disease without having to carry out further tests or scans. This saves time and money as X-rays can be produced extremely quickly however they are not as quick as CT scans as they …show more content…
This means that if the x-ray beam is shot at the patient twice as far away as it would originally be directed at the patient then it would quarter the dosage of radiation the radiographer receives but it would also cover a larger surface area. This would have a positive effect as the radiographer would be able to x-ray a larger part of the patient’s body but would not be affected by the x-ray radiation themselves.