Xray Markers

Three Kinds of Information That Are Often Added to X-Rays

X-ray images are produced by directing a specific type of electromagnetic radiation at the body of a patient. With denser portions of the body absorbing more of this energy, a photographic film placed behind the patient can be used to generate an accurate image of the internals.

Xray Markers are used to add additional information to such images that makes them even more reliable and useful. There are a variety of kinds of information that can be added to X-ray images by using markers offered by companies like Kemper Medical.

Many Types of Potentially Useful Information for X-rays

An unaltered X-ray image alone might be used by a radiologist or other physician to diagnose certain medical problems or conditions. In just about every case, though, it will be valuable to have certain kinds of information added to the X-ray image at the time it is created.

As a result, most radiographic imaging professionals own xray markers and use them on a regular basis. With portions of each marker being made out of lead that blocks the transmission of X-rays, information can easily be added to images as needed. Some of the types of information that x-ray markers are most often used to add include:

Side. Should an X-ray image of the left side of a patient's body later be mistaken for one of the right, a serious diagnostic or other mistake could easily result. Because of this, virtually every X-ray image taken will include at least one indication as to which side of the image corresponds to which portion of the patient's body.

Orientation. In the past, X-ray images were also sometimes read upside down, a not entirely common mistake that nonetheless occasionally contributed to serious problems. Some leaded markers meant for use with X-rays include compartments within which small lead pellets are allowed to move freely. With these spheres falling in place under the force of gravity, the vertical orientation of an X-ray image can easily be established.

Initials. When a physician has a question for the person who actually produced an X-ray, making it as easy as possible to identify the responsible party will always be helpful. Many lead markers include the initials of the technicians who own and use them for this reason.

A Simple, Effective Way of Making X-rays More Informative

The availability of these and other kinds of information on an X-ray can easily be invaluable. Because of this, almost all X-rays produced today are made using markers that add such details.