National Radiologic Technology Week^® is an annual celebration recognizing the essential work of imaging technologists and radiation therapy professionals, including X-ray and veterinary technologists, who benefit patients across all ages and species. 

This year’s National Radiologic Technology Week takes place from November 5-11, marking the 128th anniversary of Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen’s discovery of the X-ray on November 8, 1895. 

What is Radiography?

Radiography, in broad terms, is the technique of visualizing the body’s internal parts through the use of X-rays. It involves directing an X-ray beam through the body, where a portion of the X-rays are either absorbed or scattered by the internal structures. The pattern of X-rays that pass through is transmitted to a detector, allowing the internal image to be recorded for evaluation, either on film or through electronic means.

Why is Radiography Important?

Radiography holds importance in healthcare for its use in the diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment of patients. It captures images of the body’s internal structure, aiding in the detection of disease, foreign objects, and structural damage or anomalies. Beyond medicine, radiography’s applications permeate other industries enhancing safety and quality in fields such as manufacturing, security, and transportation.¹

How was Radiography Discovered?

On November 8, 1895, Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen, a German physicist, stumbled upon a mysterious form of radiation while experimenting with cathode rays. He named these rays "X-rays" to signify their unknown nature. The discovery was groundbreaking and earned him the first-ever Nobel Prize in Physics in 1901.² 

Roentgen’s initial experiments demonstrated the ability of X-rays to penetrate soft tissues and cast shadows of denser materials, such as bones. This gave birth to the concept of radiography and the first X-ray image was of Roentgen's wife’s hand, which revealed the bones and even her wedding ring.³

Today's Heros Harness Radiation's Power for Good

No matter what their title might be these professionals are HEROES to all of us! They play a crucial role in our daily lives, expertly operating imaging equipment, and ensuring accurate images are captured, all while minimizing harmful radiation exposure. 

• Radiation Therapists
• Radiologic and Imaging Technicians
• Dental Techs
• Veterinary Radiographers
• CT, MRI, and PET Technicians

In celebration of National Radiologic Technology Week, let us acknowledge and commend the vital role these professionals play. Mirion Dosimetry Services salutes their dedication and commitment to excellence. We encourage anyone who works with or around imaging equipment and radiation-generating sources to explore Mirion’s advanced dosimetry solutions that harness industry-leading technologies to help you to work safer. Visit www.instadose.com to discover how we can enhance your imaging services.  

For more information on National Radiologic Technology Week, visit the American Society of Radiologic Technologists at www.asrt.org/events-and-conferences/nrtw. 

References 

1. "Industrial Radiography," EPA  https://www.epa.gov/radtown/industrial-radiography#:~:text=Just%20like%20medical%20x%2Drays,visible%20to%20the%20naked%20eye 
2. "The Nobel Prize in Physics 1901". NobelPrize.org. Nobel Media AB 2021. https://www.nobelprize.org/prizes/physics/1901/rontgen/facts/.  
3. "The First X-ray Photographs". The British Library. https://www.bl.uk/collection-items/the-first-x-ray-photographs.

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