hazards of X-ray exposure to patients

    X-rays used for radiographs expose patients to relatively low levels of radiation.  We are exposed to a wide variety of low level radiation on a daily basis from cosmic rays.  When a radiograph is taken, the majority of the exposure is within the highly focused x-ray beam used to take the image.  Though x-rays travel in straight rays, some x-ray scatter occurs when x-rays are reflected by a variety of surfaces.

    Proper technique in taking radiographs and proper protection for patients minimizes their exposure to x-rays.  Collimation of the x-ray beam to the smallest necessary area before taking the radiograph minimizes the exposure of internal organs and other body parts.  Protective, lead-lined covers, smocks, and thyroid screens can be used by patients during exposure to minimize the tissues effected.  Good developing technique also ensures that the fewest number of radiographs will be taken and that the minimum exposure needed will be used in taking radiographs.

    Additional protections are needed for pregnant women.  X-ray exposure in utero may cause damage to a growing fetus.  Pregnant women are strongly advised to avoid x-ray exposure to the abdomen unless medically necessary.  The rapid cell division occurring in a growing fetus may be particularly sensitive to the ionizing radiation from x-ray exposure.  Small mutations in a cell might multiply into significant mutations in a fetus, if they occur early enough in its development.