Introduction
Roentgenogram, also known as radiography, is a medical imaging technique used to produce images of internal body structures, including bones, organs, and other tissues. It utilizes X-rays to create an external projection of an internal structure. Roentgenograms are used in the diagnosis and monitoring of a wide range of medical conditions, including fractures, tumors, and other abnormalities (Ganong, 2019). Through the use of roentgenograms, medical professionals can quickly and accurately detect and diagnose medical conditions in a patient.
History
The use of X-rays for medical imaging began in 1895, when Wilhelm Röntgen discovered that X-rays could be used to produce images of the body. In 1901, the first roentgenogram was taken of the hand of a patient, and the use of X-rays for medical imaging rapidly increased in the following decades. By the 1970s, computed tomography (CT) scans had begun to replace roentgenograms as the primary medical imaging technique due to its greater accuracy and ability to produce 3D images (Ganong, 2019).
Uses
Roentgenograms are used in the diagnosis and monitoring of a wide range of medical conditions. The most common use of the technique is in the diagnosis of fractures, as it can quickly and accurately detect broken bones. It is also used to diagnose tumors, lung conditions, and other abnormalities in the body. Roentgenograms are also an important tool in the monitoring of diseases such as cancer, as they can provide doctors with a clear picture of how a tumor is progressing over time (Ganong, 2019).
Limitations
Roentgenograms are limited in their ability to detect soft tissue. While they are useful for detecting bones and other hard tissues, they are not as effective at detecting soft tissues, such as organs and muscles. As a result, other imaging techniques, such as ultrasound and CT scans, are often used to supplement roentgenograms in the diagnosis of soft-tissue abnormalities (Ganong, 2019).
Conclusion
Roentgenograms are a valuable tool in the diagnosis and monitoring of medical conditions. Through the use of X-rays, medical professionals can quickly and accurately detect and diagnose medical conditions in a patient. While the technique has its limitations, it is still a valuable tool in the diagnosis and monitoring of medical conditions.
References
Ganong, W.F. (2019). Review of medical physiology. McGraw-Hill Education/Medical.