- Diagnosis of fractures – detection of broken bones is one of the most common uses of this test.
- Diagnosis of dislocations – an x-ray examination can reveal if the bones of a joint are abnormally positioned.
- As a surgical tool – to help the surgeon accurately perform the operation.
- Diagnosis of bone or joint conditions – for example, some types of cancer or arthritis.
- Diagnosis of chest conditions – such as pneumonia, lung cancer, emphysema or heart failure.
- Detection of foreign objects – for example, bullet fragments or swallowed coins.