Xrays are a common technology that is used in medical situations, and as technology has evolved, so have Xrays. When you visit your dentist, they are now digital. This means that instead of waiting a week to find out how deep a cavity may be, it is almost instant. Professionals who utilize Xrays use a variety of types of hardware like Small Focal Spot Xray Tubes. Since different Xrays are used for different purposes, the hardware is customizable.
Here are three facts about Xrays.
Beginning
German scientist Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen founded the Xray technology by accident. In 1895, he was working with vacuum tubes. One thing led to another. For his discovery, Roentgen was awarded the Physics Nobel Peace Prize in 1901 most likely because he did not patent his invention. Instead, he wanted it to be widely available so that others could utilize it and make improvements.
How it Works
An Xray uses electromagnetic radiation. It is similar to natural light but rests on a different wavelength. Since it requires a higher dose of radiation, it should not be used often on a living thing. The imaging technology revolutionized the medical field as broken bones could now be identified without slicing into the patient’s body, first. Today, Xrays can identify cancer and other diseases.
Safety
Medical professionals and their assistants are trained to properly operate Xray equipment. Before a patient goes through the imaging procedure, he must be deemed eligible. Pregnant women and mothers who are breastfeeding will often not be deemed eligible. This technology is intense, so it is used when necessary and sparingly.
MRIs, CT scans and fluoroscopies fall under the Xray umbrella. Each has its own purpose and requires different hardware. Companies, including Micro X-Ray Inc., manufacture Small Focal Spot Xray Tubes as well as others.