Home Prosthetics and implantation What is more accurate: fluorography or x-ray. Are there any contraindications for CT scanning?

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What is more accurate: fluorography or x-ray. Are there any contraindications for CT scanning?

Well established in practice medical examination and diagnostics. The accessibility and information content of these methods have made them widespread, and some even mandatory for preventive purposes. Fluorography is an examination that, upon reaching the age of 18, every citizen of our country is required to undergo once a year in order to prevent diseases, and it is this that causes the most complaints due to the fear of radiation. Is there any reason to be afraid of her? And what is the difference between fluorography and x-ray of the lungs?

What is X-ray radiation?

X-rays are a type of electromagnetic radiation with wavelengths ranging from 0.005 to 10 nanometers. Their characteristics are somewhat similar to gamma rays, but they have different origins. There are 2 types of radiation - soft and hard. The latter is used in medicine for diagnostic purposes.

Since it is impossible to focus, during the examination the emitting tube is directed at the patient and a receiving sensitive screen is placed behind him. An image will then be taken from it.

In clinics, fluorography is performed for preventive purposes. How does this examination differ from an x-ray? When the rays pass directly, the structure of the organ is displayed on the screen, and during fluorography, its shadow reflected from the fluorescent screen is removed. The devices for these types of studies differ in design.

Definition of fluorography

Fluorography is an X-ray examination of the chest organs, in which the image in the image is obtained by the reflected method. In the last decade, a digital version of the examination has become widespread, in which, instead of a picture, the result is displayed directly on a computer screen, and then a description is carried out.

Indications for examination

This method is used for screening purposes, that is, if it is necessary to examine a large number of the population in order to obtain results of a high degree of reliability in a short period of time. Identifying cases of tuberculosis is the main purpose for which mandatory fluorography was once introduced. What differs from a survey technically is its low resolution. However, it can be used to detect the presence of foreign bodies, fibrosis, developed inflammation, tumors, cavities and the presence of infiltrates (seals).

X-ray of the lungs

Chest X-ray is a non-invasive method of examining tissues and organs using the same rays. The result is displayed on a film image. This examination is also radiological. What makes fluorography different from that for the average person is the size of the finished result - instead of a small illegible square, a developed film of 35 x 35 cm is issued.

Indications for X-ray of the lungs

X-ray as a more detailed examination is prescribed to identify inflammatory processes, anomalies anatomical structures, if tumors of various types are suspected. Rarely is it used to see the location of the heart relative to other mediastinal organs.

How does fluorography differ from x-rays? The difference lies in the information content of the images and the detail of the resulting image. A classic x-ray makes it possible to see objects (seals, cavities, foreign bodies) up to 5 mm in diameter, while fluorography shows mainly large changes. In difficult diagnostic cases Only advanced examination will be used.

Radiation doses

Many people are concerned about the harm caused to health during examinations. Patients are afraid that undergoing a planned or preventive examination may have a negative impact on their body. Of course, there is some harm from X-ray radiation, but not so serious.

Allowable per year without harm to health is 5 mSv (millisievert). With film radiography single dose is 0.1 mSv, which is 50 times less than the annual norm. Fluorography provides slightly higher radiation exposure. What makes this examination different from an X-ray is the rigidity of the rays passing through the body, which is why the single dose increases to 0.5 mSv. Compared to the permissible exposure for a year, this is still not so much.

Digital technologies replacing film

The development of medical technology has also affected the quality of x-ray equipment. Digital devices are being introduced everywhere to replace the installations made in the last century, which output the results only on film. This innovation is good for patients because radiation doses are noticeably reduced. Digital examination requires less exposure than film examination. The well-known “hold your breath” during an examination is due precisely to the fact that when you inhale soft fabrics shift, “smearing” the shadows in the picture. But it is with a film result that fluorography is mainly done.

How does an examination using a digital device differ from an x-ray done using the usual method? First of all, by reducing radiation exposure. The effective value obtained during digital fluorography is 0.05 mSv. A similar parameter for a chest x-ray will be 0.075 mSv (instead of the standard 0.15 mSv). Therefore, for the sake of maintaining health, it is more advisable to choose more modern methods examinations.

Saving time is the second answer to the question of how fluorography differs from a digital lung x-ray. To get the result, you do not need to wait for the image to be developed so that a specialist can then describe it.

Which method should you choose?

Some people, having received a referral for a preventive annual examination, do not know what to choose - X-ray or fluorography of the lungs. If there are no complaints about the functioning of the respiratory system, then there is little point in taking a large picture. If it is possible to do digital fluorography, do it, it will protect the body from an extra dose of radiation.

A doctor who suspects pneumonia or serious illness organs of the mediastinum, has no right to make a final diagnosis without confirmation. In the presence of pathologies, therapists and pulmonologists do not ask questions about what is better - X-ray of the lungs or fluorography. Every detail that research can provide is important to them. Therefore, with developed clinical picture pneumonia, suspected tuberculosis or tumor process the patient is sent for an x-ray, often in several projections.

If there is a history of prerequisites for the development pulmonary diseases, for example, the patient actively smokes or his work is associated with harm to respiratory tract(welding, chemical industry), examinations must be carried out regularly to prevent serious pathologies from developing. Workers at tuberculosis dispensaries and hospitals are required to undergo fluorography or chest x-ray twice a year. Your doctor will tell you what to choose.

Contraindications for examination

Due to radiation effects on the body, X-ray examination of certain categories of patients should be carried out with caution or not done at all.

Certain organs react acutely to radiation, giving clinical pathology. The reproductive cells are especially sensitive, so it is not recommended to unnecessarily irradiate the pelvic area. X-rays have a detrimental effect on red cells bone marrow, disrupting their division and growth. Thyroid and thymus gland are also sensitive to all types of radiation, so during the examination you need to keep your neck above the level of the radiation tube.

It is strictly not recommended to give X-rays to pregnant women, as it affects the development of tissues and organs of the fetus. An exception is made only if the life of the expectant mother is threatened. Extensive X-ray examinations are not recommended for children under 12 years of age, but it is allowed to take pictures of the limbs and maxillofacial area when using protective equipment.

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– an x-ray diagnostic technique that involves photographing the shadow of the chest organs from a fluorescent screen onto photographic film (the method is outdated) or converting it into a digital image.

X-ray of the lungs - diagnostic technique pathological changes by fixing objects on film.

The difference between these types of X-ray examinations is significant. Digital fluorography has a lower radiation exposure to humans, but at the same time its resolution is lower in comparison with chest X-ray in direct projection. Let's look at these techniques in more detail.

What is fluorography

Every person encounters preventive fluorography every year in medical institutions, since this method is “legalized” for screening lung diseases. Without it, doctors do not sign the commission.

Fluorography became widespread due to the strong activation of tuberculosis in our country. To prevent mass infection of people, the Ministry of Health decided to introduce mandatory annual fluorography.

In this case, a single dose in one study does not exceed 0.015 mSv, with the permitted preventive dose being 1 mSv. Taking into account the norms, it can be noted that it is possible to “sort out” the radiation exposure only when performing 1,000 studies per year.

The history of fluorographic research

The history of fluorography research began in 1930, when the Soviet scientist S. A. Reinberg began to actively promote fluorography for the prevention of lung diseases. With the introduction of the method, doctors were able to diagnose pneumonia and tuberculosis with minimal radiation exposure to the patient.

Before the introduction of this X-ray diagnostic method, fluoroscopy (viewing organs on a screen under a constant stream of X-rays) was used in all countries of the world to identify respiratory diseases “in the bud.” Transillumination was not “harmless” for both the patient and the doctor. With it, the average radiation exposure per x-ray diagnostic session was about 2.5 mSv.

It should be noted that the first fluorography was high-dose and required a lot of labor on the part of X-ray room employees. With the advent of digital technology, a lot has changed. Now we have high-quality domestically produced installations with low radiation doses.

In practice, our doctors often encounter the fact that patients who do not want to undergo fluorography due to long queues in front of the office ask for a chest x-ray. This approach contradicts the principles of radiation safety for patients, since the person will receive a dose of radiation which is 100 times higher than the level in fluorographic examination.

Lung is aimed at identifying diseases, not for screening. Read about it below.

Types of fluorography

There are several modern types fluorography, which is used not only for diagnosing tuberculosis, but also pneumonia:

Digital fluorography – modern way X-ray screening of lung diseases. This method involves photographing a shadow image on a computer screen from a special chip installed in the receiver. The low radiation dose to the subject is due to the operating principle of the device: a thin beam passes linearly in turn through the entire area of study, and then the image is reconstructed by software.
Traditional fluorography is an outdated x-ray method. With it, the image is recorded on small-sized photographic film. This approach made it possible to ensure high throughput of the rooms, but did not reduce radiation exposure in comparison with chest radiography.

A significant disadvantage of the digital form is the high cost of the equipment, so today not all medical institutions can afford these technologies.

Legislation regarding fluorography

Despite the outdated equipment, Decree of the Russian Federation dated December 25, 2001 No. 892 clearly defines the frequency of fluorographic examination of patients. The following are subject to mandatory fluorography:

persons who applied to a medical institution for the first time;
patients living with newborns and pregnant women;
young people who are called up for military service or enter service under a contract;
persons with diagnosed HIV infection.

Preventive fluorography for the population is carried out at least once every 2 years.

What is a lung x-ray

X-ray of the lungs is in some way a high-quality alternative to fluorography, since it has greater resolution. On an x-ray of the lungs, shadows measuring 2 mm in size can be distinguished, and with fluorographic examination - at least 5 mm.

X-ray is prescribed for suspected lung diseases: tuberculosis, pneumonia, cancer, etc. Fluorography - preventive method.

Receipt principle x-rays lungs is based on the exposure of certain areas of the film when X-rays pass through the body. During the study, a high but short-term radiation dose is created on the patient. Its danger lies in the possibility of mutations occurring at the level of the cell's gene apparatus.

As a result, before referring a patient for an x-ray, the attending physician compares the magnitude of the risk from x-ray exposure with the practical value of the results obtained. A study is ordered if this value is low. “The benefit must be greater than the harm - the principle of x-ray diagnostics.”

Is X-ray examination of OGK safe?

Regarding the amount of radiation exposure during X-rays of the lungs of patients in domestic medical institutions, there is no need to hide the fact that it exceeds the dose in developed countries.

This is due to the use of outdated equipment. Thus, in Europe, the average dose from an X-ray examination of the lungs to one person over the course of a year does not exceed 0.6 mSv. In Russia it is twice as high – about 1.5 mSv. To protect yourself, we recommend that you perform chest x-rays in modern clinics.

Of course, when diagnosing acute pneumonia Doctors do not have time to choose an institution for the patient to perform the study. Pathology is a threat to life, so to analyze it you have to use what is available. In such a situation, the patient will have not only a frontal view of the lungs, but also a lateral view, and possibly a targeted one. This is necessary to determine the size and extent of the pathological focus in lung tissue.

There are contraindications to x-rays and fluorography:

; Comparative table of radiation doses for radiography and fluorography
Indications and technique of radiography

The indication for chest x-ray (CH) is if the doctor suspects a lung disease (pneumonia, tuberculosis, cancer). Special training it is not required to be completed. The only condition is to bare chest and remove all foreign objects.

Photography can also be carried out in underwear, if it does not contain synthetic fibers or metal objects that will appear on the x-ray.

In women, the transparency of the tops of the lung fields may be reduced when they are covered with a thick tuft of hair. This feature must be taken into account by the radiologist when analyzing the image.

Types of lung radiography:
- overview;
- sighting.
The survey technique involves taking pictures in two projections: frontal and lateral. Targeted research involves focusing on a specific pathological area of tissue. It is better to take targeted images under fluoroscopic control (using a monitor), but this increases the radiation exposure to the patient.

The main cause of errors in lung images is dynamic blur, i.e. blurred contours of formations due to breathing or pulsation of large vessels. It can be eliminated by setting the exposure time on the equipment to 0.02-0.03 seconds. As a result, experts recommend taking pictures of the lungs at shutter speeds of 0.1-0.15 seconds. This requires powerful X-ray equipment. To prevent projection distortion, it is better that there is a distance of 1.5-2 meters between the object and the focus.

What is better to do in case of pneumonia - x-ray or fluorography?

Patients ask: “Is it possible to refuse fluorography or X-ray of the lungs?” According to the law, a person has the right to this, but in such a situation he takes responsibility for his health.

After writing a written refusal, you can proceed medical commission, but the TB doctor may not sign it (he has a legal right to do so). If a specialist suspects active tuberculosis or pneumonia and his findings are confirmed by other clinical and instrumental methods (sputum examination, increase in leukocytes), a phthisiatrician or other doctor has the right by law to refer you for compulsory treatment.

The open form of tuberculosis poses a danger to other people, so it should be treated in TB hospitals.

- a life-threatening situation that is clearly visible on a chest x-ray. There are no other reliable ways to detect it. By indirect signs one can assume the presence of inflammatory changes in the lung tissue and prescribe antibiotics, but with a full X-ray examination one can control the size of the lesions, degree, course and severity pathological process. In this case, the doctor has the opportunity to combine several antibacterial drugs and change treatment regimens when the process worsens.

If in a clinic at an appointment with an ophthalmologist, dentist or other specialists they ask you for a fluorography coupon, the actions of doctors are illegal. Internal departmental orders do not override the Constitution. Just write a written refusal in your outpatient card or medical history to perform this study.

When deciding whether it is better to do fluorography or x-rays, you should evaluate the features of both methods, as well as their practical usefulness in diagnosing diseases.

Conclusions and Conclusions

The feasibility of performing fluorography or x-rays of the lungs is actively discussed by scientists, researchers and facilities mass media. In the article we tried to analyze all aspects and nuances of this topic.

Despite your own opinion, the decision lies in the choice of method x-ray examination It is better to trust the doctor, since the relationship between radiation harm from ionizing radiation and the practical benefits of the information received should also be taken into account.

The diagnostic capabilities of CT are based on the properties of x-rays. Experts start from this, pointing out limitations to the procedure.

Contraindications to computed tomography

For all its informativeness, the computed tomography method is not indicated for everyone and not always. First of all, it is harmful to embryos and small children, due to the fact that they are in a state rapid growth, namely fast-growing tissues are especially susceptible to the effects of X-rays. Pregnancy is also absolute contraindication, with the exception of brain tomography when protecting the abdomen from radiation and only in exceptional cases.

CT scanning is incompatible with drinking alcohol, and it is also contraindicated for people with mental disorders. The obstacle is a lot of weight, which one depends on the design of the particular tomograph. Braces can distort the results of tomography of the jaws, everything else will be illuminated without interference.

MSCT with contrast is not performed for patients with renal, heart failure, multiple myeloma, pathologies thyroid gland, allergy to iodine.

Is it possible to do a CT scan during pregnancy?

CT scan during pregnancy early stages can cause a miscarriage. If this does not happen, abortion is still recommended, since the teratogenic effects of radiation (i.e., capable of causing underdevelopment or functional immaturity of organs in the fetus) used in CT scans are known.

An exception (and only in very rare situations when it comes to a woman’s life) can be made if a pregnant woman needs a CT scan of the head. Then the rest of the body must be covered with a special lead apron that does not transmit x-rays. In this case, even if a woman had a CT scan during pregnancy, the manifestation of pathologies due to this in the unborn child is unlikely.

At what age can a CT scan be done?

Considering the possible harm from radiation, and for a child it is many times higher than for an adult, computed tomography is prescribed for children only in cases where it is vital sign. For example, to identify and examine tumors. Of course, if it is possible to obtain the necessary information in other ways - for example, MRI or ultrasound, then they are carried out.

Is it possible to do a CT scan during menstruation?

Menstruation itself does not interfere with CT scanning, including during examination abdominal cavity and in general all parts of the body except the uterus: in this case, the diagnostic results may be distorted and it is better to wait until the end of menstruation.

Is it possible to do a CT scan after an x-ray?

A CT scanner, which uses the same radiation as conventional X-ray machines, produces very clear images. This especially applies to bone tissue and hollow internal organs. Often seen on x-rays requires the detail that tomography can provide. And it is not only possible, but must be done if there are serious reasons for this. The same can be said about MSCT after fluorography. But if the case is not an emergency, it is better to leave a gap of several weeks between examinations.

Similar questions arise regarding CT scanning after chemotherapy. Will the harm from it increase against the background of the toxic drugs received? Studies are required to evaluate the success of treatment; they cannot be avoided. But you need to maintain a certain time interval between the use of chemotherapy and CT.

Complications after CT

The most terrible complications of diagnostics based on X-rays include the development of oncology. We are talking only about an unlikely possibility, but the fact itself must be taken into account. When prescribing procedures, the doctor takes into account the total number of procedures so as not to exceed acceptable standards on irradiation. If a patient feels unwell after a CT scan, it is unlikely that it is related to the procedure itself. Bad feeling, temperature after CT can be explained by the general painful condition of the patient. In addition, if a contrast agent is used, it is possible allergic reaction on him. You should tell your doctor if you experience itching, swelling, nausea, or tightness in the airways during or after diagnosis.

How often can a CT scan (SCT) be done?

The question of how often computed tomography and x-rays can be done is related to the use of radiation devices. The opinion of experts is this: undergoing the procedure once is not at all dangerous to health. But after what time a repeat CT scan can be done depends on various circumstances.

The quantitative value of radiation received by the examined patient is not the same for different scanning areas and equipment features. Having been examined once, you don’t have to worry about the consequences, there won’t be any. But the fact is that the body does not “forget” about the doses received: radiation can accumulate, and what is received will again join what was already there. But often diagnostic procedures needs to be done again and again. At what interval is this acceptable? How many times can MSCT be done per year? Per month?

There are certain standards relating to the maximum permissible level of radiation received by a person per year. According to the Russian Federation Law “On Radiation Safety of the Population” of 1996, the permissible dose used in diagnostics should not exceed 15 mSv per year, which must be taken into account when repeating CT scans. Note that the average radiation dose for a CT scan of the head is 2-4 mSv, for the abdominal cavity - 5-7 mSv. If there are strong indications for more frequent scanning than once a year, the diagnosis is carried out as many times as required in a particular situation.

You must notify your doctor that you have undergone X-ray diagnostics in the recent past. At critical value radiation exposure, he will refer you to another type of hardware diagnostics, for example, MRI.

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This article will focus on considering the answer to the question of which is better - fluorography or x-ray of the lungs. Here we will study these processes and evaluate the level possible harm, features of holding and purpose, and much more.

Fluorography concept

First, let's look at what fluorography of the lungs shows. At its core, this is an x-ray study, the meaning of which is to photograph a visible image displayed on a fluorescent type screen. The image is formed by X-rays that flow through the body and are unevenly absorbed by the organs and various tissues of the body. The main elements of the method were described shortly after the discovery of X-rays, and it was invented by scientists A. Carbasso, A. Batteli and J. M. Bleier.

What fluorography of the lungs shows is a reduced image of the object. Two types of techniques are distinguished, namely: large-frame type (in special cases, 70 x 70 mm, sometimes even up to one hundred) and small-frame type (about thirty, 35 x 35 mm). The first type can approach the radiographic level in terms of the scope of its capabilities. Usually, this method used, if necessary, to examine organs located in the chest cavity, mammary glands and bone elements.

Most commonly used method

Chest fluorography is the most widely used diagnostic method using fluorographic principles. Used to detect diseases such as tuberculosis and/or lung tumors. There are two types of fluorographic devices; they are divided into stationary and mobile.

Today, most devices for fluorographic studies are being replaced from film to digital. The latter are a way to simplify the work with images, and also reduce the load of rays on the subject of the examination, and reduce the cost of auxiliary materials.

Methods and their application

To answer the question of which is safer (fluorography or x-ray of the lungs), you should also pay attention to the methodology of this study. Common methods of digital fluorography are divided into two means. The first is similar to conventional fluorography, since the doctor uses a photograph developed on a fluorescent type screen. The only difference is the use of X-ray film or CCD matrix. The second methodological technique is a transverse scan of the chest cavity, using X-ray beams. The transmitted radiation is detected by a special scanner for paper documents, where the detector itself moves along the surface of the sheet. The second method makes it possible to use less radiation, which puts pressure on the body. Among the disadvantages, mention should be made of the longer time it takes to receive a picture.

Lung x-ray concept

What does a lung x-ray show? At its core this procedure- this is a kind of alternative to the fluorographic method, which is determined by the possession of greater resolution capabilities. Based on X-ray data, it is much easier to distinguish clusters of shadows up to two millimeters, while fluorography is limited to five. The X-ray method can be prescribed in cases where, for example, the presence of tuberculosis, pneumonia, cancer, etc. is suspected. Fluorography is a preventive method. The principle on which X-ray photography is based is the exposure of certain areas of the film as X-rays pass through the body. During the study, the patient is subjected to a high but short-term load through the use of beams.

Beam load value

Having answered the question of what an x-ray of the lungs shows, it will be important not to bypass the point about the intensity of that same radiation exposure mentioned in the section above. Without pretense, we can say that on the territory of the Russian Federation, the harm from the examination is clearly high. This is due to the exploitation of domestic honey during the examination process. equipment that is already outdated. In Europe, the amount of radiation exposure per year does not exceed 0.6 mSv. In Russia, this value reaches one and a half mSv. You can protect yourself during examination by fluorography or x-ray of the lungs during examination in modernly equipped clinics.

The difference between X-ray and fluorography

What's better? Fluorography or X-ray of the lungs? In answering these questions, it is important to compare procedures across different parameters to ensure that the assessment is as accurate as possible. For example, the prevalence of methods must be taken into account, since radiographic examinations are considered one of the most widely known methodologies and are used more often compared to magnetic resonance or computer aids. X-rays of the lungs are used extremely rarely for children, since the load created by radiation is quite large for the child’s body. However, sometimes it is necessary to do this. For example, if you suspect a serious illness.

Principle x-ray examination is simple - the beam beam comes from a special tube of the device and then passes through the subject’s body, projecting the image onto the film.

About computed tomography

In clinical studies, it is also common to encounter a method that is very similar to X-ray. It's called computed tomography. In more detail, it should be noted that X-ray radiation flows through the body from a number of angles at once. The output “frames” are processed by a computer and “fused” into a single image. This type of CT scan is very informative, reliable, accurate and detailed, but has a high cost. The method is most often used to clarify the results of the examination, as well as if there is a suspicion of a serious illness. However, when discussing the question of what is more effective (fluorography or x-ray of the lungs), it is important to mention a method such as computed tomography.

Applications of Magnetic Resonance

There is a concept of magnetic resonance imaging, which receives a set of images by influencing the body magnetic field. This method must be taken into account when considering what is more accurate: chest fluorography or x-ray. Depending on various conditions, sometimes it is better to resort to such methods, rather than focusing only on those discussed in the article.

MRI is a harmless examination, but it costs a lot of money high price. There are also a number of restrictive points to the procedure. An example would be an implanted pacemaker, certain metals inside the body, prosthetics, etc.

The right to choose an examination remains with the patient, but it is strongly recommended to listen to the advice of a doctor in the use of such measures.

Probable reasons for refusal and assignment

Another point in considering which is better (fluorography or x-ray of the lungs) is to determine the indications or contraindications for these methods of clinical examination.

An X-ray may be prescribed by a doctor in order to get acquainted with the general picture of the patient’s health and respiratory system. This methodology is also used to clarify diagnoses such as pneumonia, pleurisy, malignant neoplasms, inflammation of the bronchial mucosa, Koch's bacillus, etc. People often wonder whether it is possible to do an X-ray of the lungs instead of fluorography? It all depends on what specific examination you need: preventive or detailed. There are other reasons.

In cases where the patient draws the doctor’s attention to the presence of permanent and prolonged cough, severe shortness of breath, pain in the chest area, wheezing, etc., most often a specialist will prescribe an x-ray of the lungs. In addition, on the territory of the Russian Federation, citizens are subject to mandatory preventive examination. In accordance with the instructions of current legislation, there are categories of subjects who are required to undergo such examinations at least once every 6 months. The examination is also mandatory for persons who have frequent contact with people suffering from a number of diseases, such as tuberculosis.

Harm from examination

What is the difference between fluorography and x-ray of the lungs, if we talk specifically about the effect on the body? Almost everyone knows that X-ray radiation has Negative influence on the organs of any living creature, including humans. The radiation used during examination is radiation, which has a very detrimental effect on the body. It can cause changes in the blood or diseases of an oncological nature.

But very often the threat is exaggerated, because when performing an X-ray, the amount of radiation exposure lies in the range from 0.03 to 0.3 mSv. If we talk about fluorography, then these values can increase five times.

For comparison, it should be noted that the annual amount of the maximum permissible dose should not exceed 150 mSv. If we compare the permissible annual norms with the amount of load during the examination, we can conclude that there is nothing fatal or terrible here. X-raying a child’s lungs is also a fairly safe measure, even though children's body has lower values of the maximum permissible norm.

Conduction and frequency

X-ray examination of the lungs (unlike diagnosis of diseases of other organs) does not necessarily require special preparation of the patient. To do this, just get to the office and follow the instructions of the doctor or laboratory assistant. Most often, health care providers will ask the subject to remove items from the waist up. Next, you need to remove your jewelry, and also, if you have long hair, remove it from your face. Then, using a special apron, the patient is covered with organs responsible for reproductive function, as well as the area of the main digestive organs. Doctors suggest taking a position between the radiation tube and the device that receives the signal.

The radiologist asks the patient to hold the controlled breathing process for a few seconds. This is done to get a sharp and clear photo. Speaking about the methods in accordance with which X-rays of the lungs are performed, it is important to note that fluorography does not contain any characteristic and sharp differences. But with the second method, the doctor can ask the patient to press closer and closer to the emitting source, while taking a certain body position, which is necessary to improve visibility. As mentioned earlier, the study should be completed at least once or twice during the year. If the subject is in a “risk group,” then the period may be shortened.

Indications for the study

Another important point in answering the question of which is better (fluorography or x-ray of the lungs) will be the determination of the results of the study.

Currently, X-ray examination of the lungs is more often used in diagnosing a diverse range of bronchopulmonary pathologies. This methodology is effective for detecting tuberculosis, pneumonia, cancerous tumors, fungus and foreign objects. However, radiography is not considered a universal method, because it will not make it possible to find pathological problems in bones and joints. MRI is often used for such purposes.

Final goal

To answer the question of where you can get an X-ray of the lungs and/or fluorography, it will suffice to say that you can get examined in almost any clinic or hospital. The newer the equipment that doctors will use, the lower the dose will be negative impact radiation.

The ultimate goal of the examination is to obtain special images, with the help of which the doctor will be able to determine accurate diagnosis and resort to prescribing treatment. However correct decoding can only be performed by a specially trained radiologist, who, by studying the shape of clearings and darkenings, the level of intensity of lines and the transfer of shades, can draw a general conclusion about general condition organs of the chest, in particular the lungs.

There are cases when, due to diagnostic needs, in order to select further treatment tactics, it is necessary to perform several research methods on the same day. To determine whether it is possible to take them one after another and how safe it is, it is necessary to understand the principles of operation of diagnostic techniques.

Operating principle of equipment and indications for organ examination

Computer tomograph

CT scan– a non-invasive examination method that allows you to obtain a layer-by-layer image of the examined part of the body or organ. Its operating principle is based on X-ray radiation. X-rays pass through the patient's body at different angles. The difference in tissue density and the degree of ray absorption are taken into account. The information is read by sensors located around the perimeter of the diagnostic table.

The obtained data is processed by a computer program, after which layer-by-layer three-dimensional images are obtained. The duration of the procedure is about five minutes. It can be done with contrast.

CT is indicated for examination:

abdominal organs;
kidneys and urinary tract, pelvic organs (fallopian tubes, prostate);
lungs;
bones (in the presence of injuries, diseases of the skeletal system, sinusitis, otitis);
pathologies of the thyroid gland.

Magnetic resonance imaging

Magnetic resonance imaging is a hardware diagnostic method based on the action of a magnetic field. The device has a magnetic field generator. The nuclei of hydrogen atoms located in human tissues come into resonance with it, as a result of which response electromagnetic radiation is recorded.

The received data is analyzed special program. As a result, MRI produces layer-by-layer three-dimensional computer images. This technique has greater penetrating ability when examining soft tissues. The method is safer because it is not used ionizing radiation. The duration of the procedure is 20-30 minutes.

MRI is indicated for examination:

brain and spinal cord;
spine;
joints;
mammary glands;
internal organs (including trachea, esophagus, abdominal and pelvic organs).

Radiography

Radiography – diagnostic method, based on the action of x-rays. The body part under study is located between the source of ionizing radiation and the receiving panel. Rays from the X-ray tube pass through human tissues that have various composition and density and do not transmit radiation equally.

Images varying degrees accuracy is obtained due to the attenuation of X-ray radiation when passing through organs. The image is recorded on X-ray sensitive film or on an electronic matrix. The air and air structures in the image are dark. Thick fabrics(for example, bones) - light. The procedure takes about a minute. X-rays may be performed with contrast.

Radiography is indicated in the study:

lungs;
skeletal system and teeth;
abdominal cavity (diagnosis of perforation of hollow organs, gall bladder and kidney stones).

Fluorography of the chest

Fluorography is a preventive method for recognizing lung pathologies based on the action of x-ray radiation. The picture is taken while inhaling. The operating principle is the same as for radiography. X-rays pass through the chest and, due to the different tissue transmittances, produce an image that is displayed on a computer screen.

This is a widespread diagnostic method because it is economical and has less radiation exposure (using new equipment) than radiography. The result is a low-resolution image (elements larger than 5 mm are visualized) and a reduced size, which makes it possible to determine the presence and approximate localization of pathology, but does not provide more accurate information.

Fluorography is indicated annually for older children school age and the entire adult population. Allows you to identify:

pneumonia;
tuberculosis;
oncopathology, volumetric and cavitary formations;
foreign bodies.

X-ray or fluorography and MRI on the same day

The action of MRI is based on a magnetic field. X-ray and fluorography - using X-ray radiation. Magnetic and ionizing radiation do not affect each other. These studies can be done in one day, if necessary. Often this is necessary to clarify the diagnosis and does not carry more harm for the body.

Fluorography is not performed after radiography, as this is impractical. The opposite situation is quite real. If a pathology is detected as a result of fluorography, the patient can be referred for further examination using radiography, computer or magnetic resonance tomography- depending on the situation.

CT scan after x-ray

These research methods are based on x-rays. CT has a high radiation dose because it involves taking a series of images. It is not advisable to do a CT scan after an x-ray. If possible, it is necessary to delay the completion of these studies. If this is not possible, the decision should take into account the fact that the diagnostic benefit must outweigh the harm.

When repeatedly performing studies based on X-ray radiation, they are guided by the amount of permissible radiation exposure. For a preventive examination, the permissible dose is 1 mSv per year, for a diagnostic examination – 10 mSv per year. The dose received depends on the method, the organ being examined, and the number of images taken. The total exposure is strictly calculated and recorded in medical records.

Limitations for procedures

CT is contraindicated:

Contraindications for MRI include the presence of electronic implants, pacemakers, metal clips, staples, prostheses and other elements. Problems may arise in patients with claustrophobia, inappropriate behavior of the patient, in children, because a person needs to lie still for about 30 minutes. In patients weighing more than 110 kg, the examination may not be possible due to the design of the device.

X-ray is contraindicated:

during pregnancy;
children (performed if there is no alternative).

Fluorography is contraindicated for:

pregnancy;
severe respiratory failure.