What are some common uses of the procedure ?
The chest x-ray is performed to evaluate the lungs, heart and chest wall. A chest x-ray is typically the first imaging test used to help diagnose symptoms such as:
• Lung disorders such as pneumonia, emphysema, tuberculosis and lung cancer
• Heart disorders such as congestive heart failure (which causes the heart to enlarge)
• Fractures (breaks) of the bones in the chest, including the ribs and collarbone, as well as breaks in the bones of the upper spine
• Reasons for shortness of breath, a bad or persistent cough, or chest pain

Who performs the test?
A radiology technologist, a skilled medical professional who is trained in x-ray procedures, will perform the test. A radiologist, a doctor who specializes in evaluating x-rays and other radiology procedures, will interpret the x-rays and report the test results to the doctor.