X–ray, or radiography, is the oldest and most frequently used form of medical imaging.

X-rays consist of electromagnetic waves of energy. They penetrate the body to varying extents depending upon the density of the structures being viewed. The result is black and white images of interior portions of the body. An X-ray can make images of any bone in the body.

X-rays are used to:

• diagnose broken bones or joint dislocation
• guide orthopedic surgery, joint replacement, fracture reductions
• look for injury, infection, arthritis, abnormal bone growths
• assist in detection and diagnosis of bone cancer
• locate foreign objects in soft tissue in or around bones