Benefits and Risks – Chest Radiography

Benefits

• No radiation remains in a patient's body after an x-ray examination.
• X-rays usually have no side effects in the typical diagnostic range for this exam.
• X-ray equipment is relatively inexpensive and widely available in emergency rooms, physician offices, ambulatory care centers, nursing homes and other locations, making it convenient for both patients and physicians.
• Because x-ray imaging is fast and easy, it is particularly useful in emergency diagnosis and treatment.

Risks

• There is always a slight chance of cancer from excessive exposure to radiation. However, the benefit of an accurate diagnosis far outweighs the risk.
• The effective radiation dose for this procedure varies.
• Women should always inform their physician or x-ray technologist if there is any possibility that they are pregnant.