X-Ray vs Ultrasound: Which One is Right for You?

Diagnostics imaging tests allow medical professionals to get a better understanding of the internal functioning of your body. With the rapid advancement of medical sciences, several imaging tests have emerged. However, two of the most commonly ordered medical imaging tests, x-ray and ultrasound, are also some of the earliest imaging ones discovered by man. Doctors often recommend an x-ray or ultrasound for an accurate diagnosis that helps them choose an appropriate treatment plan for patients.

However, before you start looking for a trusted X-ray or Ultrasound Scan Leppington, here is a quick overview of the two imaging tests, i.e., X-ray and ultrasound imaging, and how they help medical professionals in their diagnoses.

Similarities Between X-Ray and Ultrasound

Both x-ray and ultrasound are widely used medical diagnostic imaging tests often used by medical professionals. While the procedures for carrying out both are different, they have certain similarities. Some of the similarities between the two processes are listed below.

• Both procedures are widely available.

• Both procedures are inexpensive as compared to other medical diagnostics imaging tests.

• One of the two is often recommended as the first step toward diagnosing or recommending a treatment plan.

• One or both might be recommended by your doctors as a complementary test to follow up on a diagnosis of other tests or reports.

X-Rays vs Ultrasound

Despite the similarities, the two procedures are distinctly different. Here we look at the differences between the procedures, when they are recommended and how they help doctors and medical professionals decide on a treatment plan for you.

What is an X-Ray?

X-Rays were first discovered by Wilhelm Röntgen in 1895. Since its first discovery, x-rays have become one of the most commonly ordered medical imaging tests for confirming a diagnosis or determining treatment plans.

While performing an x-ray or radiography, radiologists use electromagnetic radiation to create an image. The x-ray source sends a small amount of radiation through a specific body part to produce images depending on how your internal structure absorbs the radiation.

Radiologists in Leppington are experienced professionals who’ll guide you through the x-ray scanning process with comprehensive imaging & accurate test results.

What is an Ultrasound?

The average human hearing ranges from 20 Hz to 20 kHz. Sound waves in this range are also called audible sounds. However, any sound wave frequency above the audible range, i.e., above 20 kHz, is called ultrasound. These sound waves find a wide application in the field of medical diagnoses.

Ultrasounds or ultrasonography is a harmless medical imaging tool that uses ultrasound waves, echo time and the Doppler effect to correctly diagnose and collect information about internal organs and other components of the body.

When is an X-Ray Recommended?

X-ray scans are especially useful for any diagnosis related to dense tissues and bones. Here is a list of some cases in which doctors recommend an x-ray scan in Leppington.

• Identify any deformities, injuries, cracks or fractures within the bones.

• Verify how the bones are healing.

• Detect any signs of infection in the lungs and sinuses.

• Pinpoint any foreign objects inside the body.

• Ascertain the position of particles such as gallstones.

• Determine the cause of obstruction in organs such as the long or small intestines.

When is an Ultrasound Recommended?

While x-ray scans are most effective in diagnoses related to bones, deep tissues and air-filled body parts, there are several conditions they fail to detect. Doctors turn to ultrasound imaging in such cases for a proper diagnosis. Here is a list of some instances where ultrasound imaging is the preferred diagnosis tool.

• Detects injuries caused to muscles, ligaments, tendons and cartilages.

• Identify swelling, sprains or strains in muscles or supporting tissues.

• Ascertain tears and stress fractures.

• Pinpoint any damage caused to soft tissues.

• Capture images of soft tissue structures and movements within your body.

Which Procedure is Right for You?

Doctors in Leppington generally recommend x-ray or ultrasound scans in the above cases. However, there are some instances where both tests are necessary for doctors to arrive at a proper diagnosis or recommend a treatment plan for their patients.

Depending on your medical history, medical concern, and the preliminary diagnosis, your doctor might recommend an x-ray, ultrasound or both. These tests give the doctor better insights into the internal components of your body and thus form a comprehensive understanding of what is wrong. Depending on the results of these tests, your doctor might recommend more tests for a more comprehensive understanding or chart a treatment plan.

Find Reliable Radiologists for X-Ray Scanning in Leppington

Your radiologist must be a highly trained and experienced professional who can execute the process without harming you or risking your safety. Hence, it is important to get your x-ray scans done by a reliable x-ray and ultrasound scanning service in Leppington.

Once your doctor has recommended the tests, call your x-ray scan service in Leppington for an appointment. Your radiologist will fix an appointment for you at the earliest. On the day of the x-ray, they’ll walk you through the procedure and ensure that it is carried out in a safe and controlled manner.