An X-Ray (radiograph) is a noninvasive medical test that helps physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions. Imaging with x-rays involves exposing a part of the body to a small dose of ionizing radiation to produce pictures of the inside of the body. X-rays are the oldest and most frequently used form of medical imaging.The latest modalities include computed radiography and direct radiography. These are the latest aids in high resolution x-ray imaging.

The X-rays are produced by an electrical machine and the patient stands between the machine and a special screen used for obtaining the image. Patients are asked to remove any metal objects, such as watches and jewellery, that might appear on the picture and cause confusion.The patient is asked to keep as still as possible for the few seconds it takes for each image to be obtained. The procedure is entirely painless and there are no side effects. The pictures are checked for technical quality by the radiographer and then sent off to the radiologist for reporting.