Many people in New York expect to receive an X-ray when they have a potential broken bone or other problems. However, there has been a number of developments in X-ray technology that could substantially change the experience for many patients. X-rays were originally discovered at the end of the 19th century, and since that time, they have been used to see inside the human body, examine luggage contents at airports and even monitor buildings.
X-ray detectors have traditionally been fixed and rigid. However, in the future, these detectors could potentially be printed onto a wide range of surfaces. This means that they could be curved to produce more accurate images of human bodies or large enough to scan shipping containers and trucks as well as suitcases for security. Small X-ray devices also may become available to allow police to assess potential suspicious packages.
Medical X-rays are created when the rays are fired onto a digital detector that converts the rays to electrical charges. The charges then produce a digital image. The move away from old-style X-ray film to computer images has enhanced the acuity and detail available. However, since X-ray detectors are flat while the human body is curved, physicians may miss critical information and make errors when making diagnoses. These misdiagnoses can have serious consequences for patients, especially if cancer treatment is delayed or an incorrect dosage of radiation treatment is administered.
The advances in X-ray technology can lead not only to futuristic security applications but also improved diagnoses and a reduction in medical mistakes. When a doctor makes an error, the results can sometimes be a severely worsened medical condition. People who have been hurt due to a misdiagnosis or another medical error can consult with a medical malpractice attorney about the possibility of pursuing compensation for their damages.