What can go wrong with X-rays?

March 29, 2021 | Crandall & Pera Law
What can go wrong with X-rays?

X-rays are a widely used and accepted diagnostic tool. However, that doesn’t change the complexity of the system. When working with machinery like an X-ray machine in Ohio or other states, things can go wrong or be missed in the process.

An X-ray doesn’t diagnose the problems

X-rays are typically used to see the bones or internal organs after complaints of pain or discomfort. One might be used to see if there’s a blood clot anywhere or a bone fracture. It can also be used on your chest to see fluid build up or other lung damage. However, no machine is perfect. X-rays are a non-invasive, almost surface level diagnostic tool. For example, they might be able to see build up in the lungs. But they don't give technicians an idea of what the build up might be. This is why X-rays are used as a way to see if further exploration or more invasive diagnostic treatment is needed. If your doctor is making a diagnosis off just the X-ray, or dismissing your health concerns, that might be a sign of medical malpractice.

Are X-rays safe or effective?

Plenty of doctors use X-rays as a way to make sure that everything is fine, and they are generally considered safe. But X-rays are very limited in what they can detect. An x-ray might not pick up on the actual problem, and blurry x-rays might lead to a missed diagnosis of serious problems. This is why X-rays shouldn’t be used as a one-and-done diagnostic tool for things beyond broken bones. If you’re still feeling pain or discomfort after one has been used and the doctor has determined thatt everything is fine, it’s worth getting a second opinion.