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Definition

By Mayo Clinic staff

An X-ray examination uses electromagnetic radiation to make images of your bones, teeth and internal organs. Simply put, an X-ray allows your doctor to take pictures of the inside of your body.

One of the oldest forms of medical imaging, an X-ray is a painless medical test that can help your doctor in diagnosis and treatment — even in emergency situations. It's a fast, easy and safe way for your doctor to view and assess conditions ranging from broken bones to pneumonia to cancer. Many different types of X-rays, such as bone or chest X-rays, exist. The type your doctor uses depends on what part of your body is being examined and for what purpose.

MY00307

Dec. 20, 2007

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